Sergio Perez has put the rumours about his future to bed after announcing he will be remaining with the Sahara Force India team for the 2016 Formula 1 season.
The Mexican driver has put pen to paper for a new contract, ending the speculation that Lotus were after his signature to join their team for next season, when they are set to be taken over by Renault.
But the news the twenty-five-year-old has re-signed with Force India, a team he joined ahead of the 2014 season, means the Silverstone-based team will field an unchanged line-up for a third consecutive season, with Perez lining-up alongside the already confirmed Nico Hulkenberg.
“I am very happy to confirm that I will be staying with Sahara Force India,” said Perez. “It means I can simply focus on the important stuff – driving the car and scoring points for the team.
“Since coming here I’ve really grown as a driver and I feel I’m performing at my best. I’ve always said I want to establish myself in a team and it’s the right moment to announce my commitment for the future with Sahara Force India.
“I can feel the potential in the team and there is a good energy, which gives me confidence for next year. I think we can continue to deliver strong results and I will do my best to help drive the team forward.
“I also want to say ‘thank you’ to Telmex and Telcel for their continued support, which has played an important role in my journey over the last ten years.”
Team Principal and Managing Director of Sahara Force India, Dr Vijay Mallya, spoke highly of Perez on the announcement, and said everyone only needs to look at the results from the past three races in Belgium, Italy and Singapore to see that the Mexican is on the top of his game.
“I’m very happy Sergio has committed his future to Sahara Force India,” said Mallya. “He’s done a fantastic job for us already and when we give him a competitive car we know he can get the job done.
“He’s also got a great attitude and never gives up – it’s that fighting spirit which fits well with this team. You only have to look at his results in the last three races to see that he is performing at the top of his game.
“It’s an exciting time for Sergio, especially with the upcoming race in Mexico next month, and with our close connections to the country I’m sure it will be a highlight for everybody in the team.”
