Perez confirmed at Force India for 2018!

©ForceIndia

Sergio Perez will continue to see Formula 1 through rose tinted glasses with the Mexican extending his contract with Force India for 2018.

Perez's confirmation was never really in doubt, although the 27-year-old said that he had been weighing other options, one of which was rumored to be Williams.

"Staying with Sahara Force India was always my priority," he said.

"It’s a team that has allowed me to show my talents as a driver and I feel very happy here. I’m proud of everything we have already achieved together and I think there is more to come.

"The team has done an amazing job this year to develop the car and establish our position as the fourth best team in Formula One.

"In the end it was an easy decision to continue our journey together."

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A veteran of 127 Grand Prix starts, Perez began his F1 career in 2011 with Sauber. He initiated his relationship with Force India in 2014 following a disappointing season with McLaren.

Team owner Vijay Mallya is delighted to keep the Mexican on-board for next season.

"Sergio has played an important role in our success story over the last few years," said Mallya.

"Since joining us in 2014, he has matured to become one of the quickest and most consistent drivers on the grid.

"His track record speaks for itself as the most successful Force India driver ever with four podiums.

"Alongside Esteban, retaining Sergio gives us stability going into next season and one of the most exciting driver pairings in Formula One."

The fact that Perez's contract is extended for just one year is likely an indication that the Mexican is keeping his options open for 2019 when several drivers could be seen competing for prime seats on the F1 grid.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.