UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > Force India wants best drivers

Two seats available?

Nov.15 (GMM) Adrian Sutil might not race for Force India in 2008, the team's boss Colin Kolles has hinted.

With Christian Klien, Vitantonio Liuzzi and other young hopefuls driving the newly Burgundy and white cars at Barcelona this week, the list of drivers set to also test for the former Spyker outfit has grown further overnight, it has emerged.

Also in the running is Franck Montagny, who after running for the last time for Toyota this week is understood to be lining up a Force India test at Jerez in December.

Also unconfirmed for Jerez are Giancarlo Fisichella, Ralf Schumacher and Adrian Valles.

Sutil is already under contract for 2008, but he is reportedly a leading contender to replace Fernando Alonso at McLaren.

Kolles told sportnet.at that every driver testing for Force India before Christmas is in with a chance of a 2008 seat.

"Whether we have one or two places (available), we will see," he added.

In a blow to rookies including Spanish hopefuls Roldan Rodriguez and Valles, meanwhile, he said Force India will not make its selections based on which drivers can bring the most sponsorship to the team.

"We want to have the best drivers," Kolles insisted, "so really there can no longer be any more excuses."

Kolles also fended off reports that Mike Gascoyne has threatened to quit if Ralf Schumacher is ultimately signed.

"We have always said: if he wants to test, he is welcome," Kolles added.

Force India is expected to announce its complete 2008 driver lineup before the new year.

Written: Thu, 15 Nov 2007 10:11:02