SEPTEMBER 24, 2015

Force India ends Perez-to-Renault rumours

Force India has ended speculation it may lose Sergio Perez and his Mexican backing to the new Renault works team in 2016.

Reports this week suggested the 25-year-old could be set to replace the Haas-bound Romain Grosjean at Enstone.

But at Suzuka ahead of the Japanese grand prix, Force India said Perez is staying put.

"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," the former Sauber and McLaren driver said.

Speaking to reporters at Suzuka, Perez admitted that Renault was a "serious option" for 2016, but he is ultimately "very happy" to stay at Silverstone for a third consecutive year.

"You always listen to other options and offers, so if Renault come they are an attractive team, but at the moment I knew that the best for me is staying here," he insisted.

(GMM)