Force India struggle in Spanish GP qualifying

It was a disappointing outing for both Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Perez at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya

Barcelona, May 9 (IANS)

It wasn't the perfect day for Force India as its Formula 1 drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Perez will start Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in 17th and 18th places.

The duo were totally off the pace in Saturday's qualifying round and ended only ahead of the two Marussia cars of Roberto Merhi and Will Stevens.

While German Hulkenberg clocked one minute, 28.365 seconds, he was followed by his Mexican teammate, who came home in 1:28.442, with both failing to get out of Q1.

It will be a tough race for the duo as they lacked straight line speed.

Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg topped the time sheets and will start the race from pole position followed by teammate and reigning World Champion Lewis Hamilton. Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel will start third.