F1: Tyre problem lets Di Resta down . .

In a season which is becoming more controlled by tyre management, rather than out-and-out race pace, Di Resta’s car failed to get the maximum out of the Pirelli hard-compound rubber.

“I think we need to analyse why our performance on the hard tyres did not meet our expectations and exactly why we lost out,” the 26-year-old from Bathgate said.

“I’m disappointed not to have been farther up in the battle for points, because my race was looking promising over the opening phase. But as things unfolded, I lost track position.

“My main battle in the second half of the race was with the Toro Rossos, but they were on the soft tyres when I was on the hards and it was impossible to keep them behind me.

“I think it’s just one of those races that didn’t work out for me, for whatever reason, so we’ll take it on the chin and look to come back stronger in Monaco.”

And Di Resta, whose performances over the past 18 months are known to be interesting Ferrari, who are considering the Scot as a replacement for Felipe Massa next season, was quick to congratulate race winner Pastor Maldonado.

The Williams driver, who started from pole position after Lewis Hamilton was demoted from pole to 24th after a technical infringement with his McLaren, drove a flawless race beating Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) to the chequered flag and Lotus F1 Team’s Kimi Raikkonen into third.

“It was a great result for Williams, Pastor and, especially, team boss Sir Frank Williams,” Di Resta continued. “He is one of the most respected gentlemen in Formula One, and what he hasn’t achieved in the sport isn’t worth talking about.

“After the difficulties the team endured last season, it’s a terrific fillip for him to have seen Maldonado win his first race for Williams.”

And Di Resta also passed on his best wishes to the crew members – from Williams, Sahara Force India, and Caterham — who were involved in the explosion in the Williams garage after the race.

“It was also good to hear that none of the people injured in the explosion, which happened in the Williams garage after the race, were seriously injured. Hopefully, those people who were injured or suffered the effects of smoke inhalation will recover quickly,” he said

Not only was it the first F1 win for Maldonado it became the first by a Venezuelan to win a grand prix, and claimed the first win for Williams since Colombian Juan Pablo Montoya won in Brazil in 2004. The emotional win also coincided with the 70th birthday of team founder Sir Frank.

“It was so close,” added 29-year-old Maldonado, who finished just 3.195 seconds ahead of local hero Alonso while Hamilton finished eighth and Jenson Button was one place farther behind.