Otmar Szafnauer on Sergio Perez's new deal

Racing Point's team principal and CEO Otmar Szafnauer have spoken about the news which we brought you about Sergio Perez signing a new contract with the team.

Perez has entered 170 races as a driver and this new deal with Racing Point who entered Formula 1 for the first time this season allows for the Mexican to be confident about his long term future.

He's previously driven for Sauber, McLaren and Force India before Racing Point took over from them.

Szafnauer admitted that the relationship which the team have with Perez was a key reason for keeping him on and signing a new deal.

“We know Sergio very well and it’s great to confirm him on a long-term deal. Over the last six years, we have seen him become a very complete driver with excellent qualifying speed and exceptional race craft," The CEO told the Racing Point website.

Sergio believes in the long-term vision of this project and getting his commitment until the end of 2022 gives us valuable consistency going forward.

As the team continues to grow and develop it’s important to have a driver with Sergio’s level of experience, especially with new regulations on the horizon.

The whole team is thrilled to continue working with Sergio and I believe we can enjoy great success together in the coming years.”