Di Resta 'well prepared' for rookie debut

While the other three have recent GP2 experience, and in the case of Maldonado a title, di Resta comes into off the back of a title-winning DTM campaign after four years racing with Mercedes in touring cars.

But the 25-year-old Scot, who beat Sebastian Vettel to the 2006 F3 Euroseries title, says his experiences working with Mercedes have prepared him as well as any other rookie on the grid.

"It's going to be a big step," said the Force India driver. "When you get around traffic it's going to be a bit different because the DTM is touring cars and you can rub a bit. But I have got experience and I've just got to go in and do my absolute best out there.

"I don't see why [having GP2 experience] is an advantage. I've had four great years in the DTM in a very competitive environment racing for a factory team and been part of the biggest car manufacturer in the world, Mercedes-Benz.

"That has given me some great experience and I come into F1 with Force India, a good team that has given me the chance and will give me all of the valuable information I need to hopefully become a good F1 driver."