Vijay Mallya believes Force India can catch Sauber

Sauber has been one of the surprises of the year, securing four podium finishes and even fighting for victory in Malaysia and Spa.

Force India is 37 points behind the Hinwil-based squad with seven races to go.

And although Sauber has looked stronger than Force India in recent races, Mallya reckons a good result could change the championship situation quickly.

"There have been various moments where they've drawn away and we seemingly can't catch them, but all it takes is a podium finish that brings in a lot of points, and if we get a couple of them, we could still chase them down," said Mallya.

"Two years ago Williams got us by one point in Brazil, so every point does matter!"

The Indian believes his team has fallen the wrong side of fortune several times this year, but he acknowledges that the fight in the midfield has intensified massively.

"We haven't had our fair share of luck yet this season. Take the case of Spa - it was probably as close as we've had to a podium finish, but once again, it was not to be. But I'm an optimist and I don't give up!

"It's tough, Williams are strong, Sauber are strong. And look at what's happening with Lotus. A lot of teams that were regarded as midfield teams last year are now pushing the big boys pretty hard."