Rumours linking Sebastian Vettel with a move to Racing Point have intensified following confirmation that Sergio Perez will be leaving the team at the end of the season.
In a statement released on Wednesday night, Perez revealed that the unusual 2020 campaign would be his last with the Silverstone-based outfit, for whom he has raced for seven years after initially joining previous incarnation Force India in 2013 following his exit from McLaren.
"Everything in life always has a beginning and an end, and after seven years together, my time with the team will come to an end after this season," the Mexican driver said.
"It hurts a bit as I bet on the team during very rough times; we managed to overcome obstacles and I am very proud of saving the jobs of several of my team-mates."
Perez, who only signed a three-year contract extension in 2019, has achieved five podium finishes to date during his time at Racing Point and will hope to add to that number during the final nine races this term after missing two as a result of coronavirus.
"Checo [Perez] has been part of the Silverstone family for seven years and in that time has become one of the most complete drivers on the grid," said team principal and CEO Otmar Szafnauer.
"Blisteringly quick on Saturday and Sunday, he’s established his reputation as a tenacious racer and together we have enjoyed some fantastic moments.
"If there was ever a sniff of a podium, Checo was ready to pounce, and those five podiums represent some of the finest days in the history of this team.
"Outside of the car, Checo is a true character and a good friend, and it’s been a pleasure working with him for such a long time.
"Although we will say goodbye at the end of the year, there are still nine races to go and plenty of opportunities for Checo to make some more special memories with this team.”
Vettel is the hot favourite to replace Perez and compete alongside Lance Stroll - son of team part-owner Lawrence Stroll - at Racing Point, who will rebrand as Aston Martin Racing in 2021.
The four-time world champion's exit from Ferrari at the end of the season was confirmed back in May and he subsequently revealed that he had held talks with Racing Point, among other teams.
