Force India has defended its tactics during the Canadian Grand Prix, believing it was preferable to let Sergio Pérez and Esteban Ocon compete for position, rather than impose team instructions.
Pérez narrowly trailed Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo in the scrap for third at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, with Esteban Ocon emerging close behind in fifth spot on 13-lap fresher tyres, having extended his first stint.
Ocon suggested he should be permitted an attempt at passing Ricciardo, though Pérez held firm, urging Force India to “let us race,” with the duo maintaining their respective positions.
Both, though, were overhauled during the closing stages by Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel, leaving Pérez in fifth, with Ocon sixth, the pair separated by less than three tenths of a second at the chequered flag.
“The battle between Sergio and Esteban was one of the stories of the race and showed how closely-matched they are as team-mates,” said Deputy Team Principal Bob Fernley.
“We clearly had the quicker car compared to the Red Bull of Ricciardo, but overtaking in Montreal is never easy and we spent almost the entire race in his wheel tracks.
“After the pit stops, Esteban was right behind Sergio and had a pace advantage thanks to his fresher tyres.
“We advised both drivers of the situation and considered switching them around, but ultimately we chose to let them race.
“They were tough with each other on the track, but it was a fair fight.
“Sadly we couldn’t contain Vettel, but picking up 18 points extends our points advantage in the championship.”
Force India strengthened its grip on fourth position in the Constructors’ Championship, 42 points clear of nearest rival Toro Rosso.
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