Vijay Mallya seems set to wait until the Force India's Christmas party before announcing the driver line-up for next year
Team waiting for confirmation of Sutil's departure to Williams
Force India co-owner Vijay Mallya seems set to wait until the team's Christmas party before announcing the driver line-up for next year.
It is understood Paul di Resta and Nico Hulkenberg, who has been reserve this season, have already been signed for next year.
However, there is a delay over confirming the team due to Adrian Sutil's likely exit, the German expected to sign with Williams to partner Pastor Maldonado.
While not expecting to have Sutil back for next season, Force India do not want to confirm a replacement for the 28-year-old until he's signed with someone else.
Wait
"He (Mallya) might be waiting a little longer before he finalises it (the line up)," Force India vice-principal Rob Fernley said.
"There are a number of things holding it up. Obviously, it is only fair we deal with the drivers.
"We have three very talented drivers and we need to make sure the one that is going to be disappointed has the best opportunity to position himself and that's our priority.
"Once we are clear with all those programmes, Vijay will announce it."
The Christmas party is scheduled for December 15, giving Sutil the time required to complete negotiations with Williams. There is every chance an announcement could be made before then if talks are concluded earlier.
However, Fernley added: "I'm sure that's the date he's always set. If you remember, he said December 15. That would be consistent with what he has always projected."
