Sergio Perez pens new contract with Force India

Sergio Perez signed a new contract with Force India

Abu Dhabi, Nov 22 (IANS)

Mexican driver Sergio Perez Saturday extended his contract with Formula 1 team Force India for "2015 and beyond".

The 24-year-old had joined the team from McLaren at the start of 2014 and enjoyed immediate success with a podium in only his third race for Force India. Since then he has scored points in 11 races so far this season.

"I am delighted that Checo will continue with us. He's a true racer who has done a fantastic job for us this season. The whole team has been impressed with his speed and racecraft, as well as his role away from the track. He has a very bright future in F1 and we will do our utmost to give him the equipment to match his talent," said team principal Vijay Mallya.

"I look forward to celebrating more strong results with Checo this year and in years to come, and I cannot wait for his first home Grand Prix in Mexico in front of his huge following of passionate fans."

On his part, Perez said: "It's good to announce my plans. As soon as I joined Force India, I noticed the hunger and determination of everyone in the team and I'm very proud to be part of that. I feel at home here and I'm fully committed.”

"I'm enjoying my racing and we've already celebrated some special results together. It's important for me to establish myself in a team and have some continuity. The team have given me a competitive car this year and I believe we can continue to achieve great things together in the future."

Perez's best result for the team was a third place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix April 6.