Perez to leave Racing Point, Vettel poised for F1 switch

Sergio Perez will leave Racing Point at the end of the 2020 Formula 1 season, paving the way for Sebastian Vettel to make the switch from Ferrari.

On Wednesday evening, Perez announced he will leave the Racing Point team he has been with for seven seasons at the end of the year, despite recently insisting that he had a solid contract for 2021 amid rumours linking Vettel with his seat.

The Mexican had signed a contract extension with the Silverstone outfit in 2019 which ran through 2022, though it is understood there was a break clause included.

A move for Vettel to Racing Point, which will rebrand as the Aston Martin works team for 2021, has not yet been confirmed but is expected amid mounting speculation that the four-time world champion will join the team after his Ferrari contract expires.

"Everything in life always has a beginning and an end, and after seven years together, my time with the team will come to an end after the season," Perez wrote on Twitter.

"It hurts a bit as I bet on the team during very rough times. We managed to overcome obstacles and I am very proud of saving the jobs of several of my team-mates.

"I'll keep the memories of the great moments lived together, the friendships and the satisfaction of always giving my all.

"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.

"To the current administration, led by Lawrence Stroll, I wish nothing but the best in the future, especially with the upcoming Aston Martin project."

Perez recently stressed he had not begun talks with any other F1 teams as he was confident of a Racing Point stay, and admitted he does not have a “plan B” in place.

Alfa Romeo are understood to be interested in bringing Perez back to the Hinwil squad he made his F1 debut with in 2011 under its former Sauber guise, while Haas team boss Guenther Steiner said that all options are on the table for the American outfit regarding its 2021 driver line-up.

"I don't have a plan B," Perez said.

"My intention is to continue racing here, but that would depend on finding a project that motivates me to continue giving my 100 percent on each lap.

"I hope I can give you some good news real soon, but for now, let's enjoy together the next races."