Who could have predicted eight years ago that this small team could one day come close to illustrious teams like Mercedes, Ferrari, and even surpass others like Williams?<\/p>\n
It’s a linear progression, and hopes were allowed in this very selective field, especially with a fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship achieved in 2015.<\/p>\n
This year, Force India stepped up a notch starting from the Singapore Grand Prix. Already, the season had been quite fulfilling with two podiums from Sergio P\u00e9rez in Monaco and then in Baku. This season showcased a relatively complete car capable of performing on different tracks. Since 2014, the team has managed to evolve its car throughout the season to finish with the best possible tools, despite a budget that is sometimes difficult to maintain.<\/p>\n
\nThis is what it means to us! #FeelTheFourth<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/lCnFuA9weJ<\/a><\/p>\n
\u2014 Sahara Force India (@ForceIndiaF1) 27 novembre 2016<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
However, the race of the day was not as epic for the two Force India drivers as it was at the front of the race. A two-stop strategy was employed for the German and the Mexican, who did not gain any positions compared to their starting positions.<\/p>\n
Nico H\u00fclkenberg, for his last race, experienced a rather quiet race and only battled with his teammate and Max Verstappen at the lights out. Nevertheless, he was keen to score points, symbolizing a nice positive ending.<\/p>\n
He summarizes his race: \u00ab It was quite a simple and solitary race in reality. I mostly fought against my teammate because the six cars ahead were out of reach. \u00bb<\/p>\n
He also commented on the start of the race and the first corner: \u00ab At the first corner it was quite interesting because I was hit by Max (Verstappen), which damaged the side of my car and made things a bit more difficult. But luckily, we had the pace to hold the position and bring home this result. \u00bb<\/p>\n
The German continues on the end of a chapter of five seasons (interspersed with a stint at Sauber in 2013).<\/p>\n
It’s wonderful to finish with Force India on such a good result; and to have helped the team reach 4th place in the Constructors’ Championship. Everyone deserves congratulations and great credit for the immense work accomplished this year. I leave this team with many happy memories; Force India will always be a part of my life. I have learned a lot here and they have allowed me to become a better racing driver. We have grown together and I am proud of what we have achieved.<\/p>\n
In the end, Nico H\u00fclkenberg will only lack one thing with this team that saw him grow over five seasons between 2011 (as third driver) and 2012, then between 2014 and 2016, and that is indeed a podium.<\/p>\n
\nFeel the Fourth! \ud83d\udcaa\ud83c\udffb\ud83d\ude1c\ud83c\udfc1 #AbuDhabiGP<\/a> #F1<\/a> @f1<\/a> @ForceIndiaF1<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/q9kZmrCnld<\/a><\/p>\n