Paul di Resta says sixth on British Grand Prix reflects Force India's potential

Having made it through to Q3 in Britain, di Resta went on to grab a third row spot alongside countryman Jenson Button's McLaren.

Although a rain shower at the very end of qualifying did prevent any changes on the final Q3 laps, di Resta doubts he would have lost many positions even if everyone had managed further quick times.

"I'm really happy with the result today. To be here for my first British Grand Prix and to be starting in sixth place feels great," he said.

"The whole team did an excellent job and made sure we were out on track at the right times. The car has shown very strongly in every session and even in the wet yesterday we were very comfortable.

"Maybe there was a little bit of luck at the end of Q3 when the rain started again, but I think that in the worst case scenario I would have ended up in eighth. Hopefully we can carry the performance into tomorrow and come away with a strong result in my home race."

Team boss Vijay Mallya hailed di Resta's performance as a huge achievement.

"I'm very proud of what Paul has achieved today," said Mallya. "He has come here extremely confident and delivered an outstanding performance."