Mallya defends decision of not having an Indian driver

Force India co-owner Vijay Mallya has defended his decision of not having an Indian driver in his Formula One team.

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"For all those who pass judgments on why I have not put an Indian driver into the cockpit all I can say is that it is my business. I think I am proud of the fact that since I bought this team at the end of the 2007 season, we have come a long long way. Much much further and much higher than anyone would have ever expected or predicted," Mallya told the media.

However, he later said that he was hopeful that soon many home-grown Formula One drivers would grace the F1 arena, but his present focus was taking Force India to an even higher level of success.

Mallya further added that this Indian Grand Prix would be the biggest race in Force India's history.

Force India is currently sixth in the 2011 constructors' standings with 48 world championship points.

F1 fever has gripped India with sponsor companies organising various promotional events to boost interest around the event and hundreds of sports fans-donning exclusive colourful F1 merchandise- queuing up and booking passes with enthusiasm.

The Grand Prix will be held at the Buddha International Circuit in Greater Noida on October 30.