Force India's Paul di Resta concedes that the team may have to settle for seventh in the Constructors' Championship.
The Silverstone-based outfit secured their best ever finish in 2011, coming home in sixth, just four points behind Renault after a strong second half of the season.
They have built on that form this year, but despite already having collected 26 more points than they did last time out, other teams have experienced even greater improvements.
The team currently find themselves on 95 points, 29 behind sixth-placed Sauber with only two races remaining in the season and di Resta admits that they may have to settle for seventh.
"I think, under normal circumstances, you'd probably say Sauber are out of reach," he said.
However, the Scot is confident that they will see off any challenge that may arise from Williams whom they have 22-point lead over.
"Williams looked good in Abu Dhabi, but I think we're in a strong enough position to defend from them."
