Perez: Stroll investment means Force India must rise to a new level

With a stabilized foundation and adequate funding now in place, Force India must move up to the next level insists Sergio Perez.

As expected, it was announced on Thursday in Austin that the 28-year-old Mexican had extended his deal with the pink outfit for 2019.

Saved over the summer by a group of investors led by Lawrence Stroll, Force India has been restructured and enjoys the benefit of fresh capital, a clear improvement that will compel the team to move forward and upward in 2019.

"Given the size of the investment with which the team is going to start next season, we expect a lot," Perez said in Austin.

"We must rise to a new level. We have made progress since I joined the team but this investment will have a big impact on how the team starts the season."

Racing Point Force India confirms Sergio Perez for 2019

A veteran of 151 Grands Prix, Perez, who has yet to win a race in F1, believes the Silverstone-based squad will hit the ground running next year in Melbourne, and take it from there.

"We have a good car now but it arrived too late this year," Perez added.

"In 2019 we should be strong from the first race and that can help a lot.

"We have had limited resources for many years, but now we'll get the opportunity to maximise our potential."

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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.