Racing Point driver Sergio Perez has announced his departure from the team following the current season. Perez’s announcement comes as a major surprise, considering the Mexican was fairly confident of staying with the team next season. While the team hasn’t announced a replacement as of yet, all signs point towards Sebastian Vettel.
Perez joined Racing Point back when it was called Force India, in 2014. The Mexican created a habit of dragging his midfield car onto the podium on multiple occasions. He was also instrumental in saving the team when it was on the brink of collapse in late 2018.
Despite having a contract until 2022, Perez took to social media to announce his exit from the Silverstone outfit. In an emotional post, Perez thanked his fans and the team. More importantly, the Mexican revealed that he doesn’t have a “plan B” for next year.
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“It hurts a bit as I bet on the team during very tough times; we managed to overcome obstacles and I am very proud of saving jobs of several of my teammates”
Tengo algo que anunciarles…
¡Gracias por su apoyo todo este tiempo!I have something to announce to you…
Thank you for your support all these years!#NeverGiveUp pic.twitter.com/4qN9U6Cg1L— Sergio Pérez (@SChecoPerez) September 9, 2020
“I will always be grateful for the opportunity given to me by Vijay Mallya, who believed in me in 2014 and allowed me to continue my F1 career with Force India”
Perez went on to thank Lawrence Stroll, who’s spearheading Racing Point’s transformation to Aston Martin in 2021.
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“To the current administration, led by Lawrence Stroll, I wish nothing but the best in the future, especially with the upcoming Aston Martin project”
“I don’t have a plan B. My intention is to continue racing here, but that would depend on finding a project that motivates me to continue giving my 100 percent in each lap”
For a man that’s stuck by the team through good times and bad, one can’t help but feel for Perez. However, it remains to be seen who the team announces for its 2021 driver lineup next to Lance Stroll.
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If rumors hold any value, there’s a certain 4 times World Champion who’s yet to decide his future plans.