No regrets for Perez over rejecting Renault move for 2017

Sergio Perez says he has no regrets over rejecting a move to Renault for the 2017 Formula 1 season despite the French manufacturer's progress over the winter.

Perez was courted by Renault to lead its revival after returning to F1 with a works operation in 2016, only for the Mexican to favour staying at Force India.

Renault ultimately signed Perez's then-team-mate Nico Hulkenberg to partner Jolyon Palmer, with the German charging to points finishes in the last two races. By comparison, the team scored just three top-10 finishes through all of last year.

Perez admitted he was surprised by Renault's progress over the winter, but believed it was good for the F1 to have another strong midfield team.

"I think Renault has been really a good surprise for Formula 1," Perez said. "I think they've made an impressive step. It will be interesting to see how they are able to develop."

However, Perez stressed he had no regrets over rejecting a move to Enstone for 2017, with Force India making a good start to the season itself with points finishes in every race so far.

"No, I'm happy where I am," Perez said. "We will see in Barcelona what we are able to do compared to everyone else. We are fourth in the constructors' at the moment. I think we're looking good.

"Obviously we've been taking opportunities from others, we definitely don't have the pace to be there. I expect that once we have the pace, things should be a lot better."

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