Indian tycoon Vijay Mallya has not given up hope that Force India will break their duck in Formula One this season.

After 11 races neither Giancarlo Fisichella nor Adrian Sutil have yet to score a point, leaving Force India as the only team with a zero against their name.

But ahead of this weekend's European Grand Prix at the newly-built street circuit around Valencia's marina, Indian billionaire and co-owner Mallya is looking for that to change.

Despite the fact his team will now primarily be concentrating on next year's car, he said: 22009 is a big opportunity.

"But there are still points up for grabs this year and we need to look to maximise them now.

"What Force India has proved is that we look competitive in race conditions and, under the right circumstances, can pick up points if the chances come our way.

"We've performed well on street courses too, and with two in the final part, this could be a good opportunity for us.

"We need to look for 100% reliability to ensure that whenever these chances come our way we are really able to take advantage.

"If we take our eye off the ball we could miss out on getting some good finishes.

"That said, work for 2009 will step up immensely towards the end of the season so we can make sure we are ready."

Like everyone else in Formula One, Mallya is highly impressed with the sport's latest venue.

Although it may not rival Monaco for glamour, the setting is superb and at least affords Mallya another chance to show off his multi-million pound yacht 'Indian Empress', currently moored at the end of one of the jetties.

"I think Valencia is a great venue for a race, like a little Monaco," added Mallya.

"It should be some sight to see the cars going past the marina and the boats, very reminiscent of the Principality.

"I think it will be a great event for the team, fans and sponsors."