Di Resta 'exceptional'posted in F119 | 04 | 2011

THE EARLY-SEASON performances by Bathgate's Formula One rookie Paul di Resta have been labelled as 'exceptional' by Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug. The German masterminded Di Resta's march to the DTM Championship last season.

"I think it is exceptional and remarkable," Haug — who has watched Di Resta score in his opening two grands prix, outqualify his more experience Force India team-mate Adrian Sutil three times, and who started eighth in China — admitted today.

"To be in his third race and take eighth on the grid – that is very good and very impressive, especially considering he did not get a lot of running in second practice.

"We always knew he was a very good and very talented guy, and when he gets in the right groove — we saw it in DTM — it can be very special for him.

"F1 will be very good for him I think. His team-mate is tough, the speed is quite impressive and he is doing a good job. We are pleased we helped him in his junior career."

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Jim McGill