Force India final F1 team to reveal 2018 car

Force India are the last Formula 1 team to launch its 2018 car, the VJM11, in the pit lane at Circuit de Catalunya on the morning of the start of pre-season testing.

The Silverstone-based squad have been one of the most tight-lipped teams during preparations for the 2018 F1 season having already confirmed its unchanged driver line-up of Esteban Ocon and Sergio Perez for the new campaign.

Force India, who recently denied reports of a takeover bid, will continue to be run by Vijay Mallya as team principal and managing director with Otmar Szafnauer and Robert Fernley overseeing trackside operations.

The VJM11 retains its eye-catching pink livery which was debuted at last year’s opening race in Australia while continuing its Mercedes engine deal for this year.

Force India has enjoyed its best-ever F1 seasons in consecutive years with back-to-back fourth place finishes in the world constructors’ championship. Despite missing out on the F1 podium last year Force India recorded its highest-ever points tally and Mallya is eager to build on the recent momentum while also targeting a return to the rostrum.

“I see no reason why we cannot consolidate our position and improve," Mallya said. "Yes, Formula One is a very tough and competitive environment, but we are an established team with continuity in all areas of the company. We don’t take anything for granted, but we will be disappointed if we are not fighting for points at every race this year.”

The British F1 team gets 2018 testing underway with the rest of the grid today at Circuit de Catalunya with the track going live at 9AM local time. Force India development driver Nikita Mazepin handed the honour of debuting the VJM11 on track in Spain before handing over to Ocon on Tuesday and Perez on Wednesday.