F1: Force India Confirms Sutil Return

Formula 1

F1: Force India Confirms Sutil Return

Adrian Sutil will return to Force India after a one-year absence from Formula One...

Adam Cooper | http://www.speedtv.com | Posted February 28, 2013 Balen (BEL)

Adrian Sutil has not raced since the 2011 Brazilian GP, but returned to the cockpit with Force India at the recent Barcelona test. (Photo: Getty Images)

Adrian Sutil’s return to Sahara Force India has finally been confirmed by the team.

The news comes just two weeks before the Australian GP weekend kicks off.

The 30-year-old has not raced since the 2011 Brazilian GP, but returned to the cockpit with his former team at the recent Barcelona test. He ultimately beat reserve driver Jules Bianchi to the job.

“I’m delighted to be back in Formula One, especially with a team I know so well," said Sutil. "I’m very happy and I want to thank Sahara Force India for giving me a second chance. Having been away from the sport, I’m even more determined to achieve my goals in Formula One.

"Things went really well at the Barcelona test last week, and it almost feels as though I’ve never been away. Driving the car felt so natural and I was able to get back in the groove quickly and find the limit. Now my focus is on making the most of the final test session this week, working with the team in the simulator and getting myself in the best possible shape for Melbourne.”

Force India was faced with a change of plan late last year after it lost Nico Hulkenberg, who had been expected to stay in 2013, to rival Sauber.

Bianchi's manager Nicolas Todt told Reuters Wednesday: "It's a big disappointment. I am a very realistic person but I was very hopeful he would get this drive."

Adam Cooper notched up his 28th season as a racing journalist in 2012. He has written about F1 for SPEED.com since 2005. Follow him on Twitter.