SUZUKA: Mexican driver Sergio Perez will remain with Force India for the 2016 world championship, taking him into a third season with the team.

Perez, who joined Force India in 2014 after one year at McLaren and two seasons with Sauber, said: “I am very happy to confirm that I will be staying with Force India.”

“It means I can simply focus on the important stuff –– driving the car and scoring points for the team,” the 25-year-old added.

“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.”

Perez, who will once again partner Nico Hulkenberg, is also set to provide a huge financial boost to Force India as he carries the support of big Mexican sponsors.

He is currently ninth in the world championship with 39 points ahead of this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix after finishing seventh in Singapore last week.

Hulkenberg has already signed a two-year deal with the Mercedes-powered team, who are fifth in the championship.

“Sergio has done a fantastic job for us already and when we give him a competitive car we know he can get the job done,” said Force India team principal Vijay Mallya.

“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.”

Mexico has returned to the Formula One calendar for the first time since 1992 this season.—AFP

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2015

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