Sergio Perez "realistic" about his chances of driving for Mercedes or Ferrari

Sergio Perez knows that his chance of driving for Mercedes or Ferrari is over. The Mexican racer has therefore signed a multiple-year contract with midfield team Racing Point and will hope to bring the team higher up the contractor's table over the next few seasons. 

“I see this team has a big potential,” said Perez to Motorsportweek. “I really believe in the plans that we have for the coming years.

“I think this year as expected has been a bit of a transition. I think definitely it’s a massive opportunity for me to grow together for the future and obviously, there is a big change in rules coming up so hopefully, this team can be in place for that.

“I think what the team is doing back home, everyone, how hard they’re pushing, and the investment is a massive opportunity.

“And more to it I wanted a project that motivated me, and it’s what I have here. I see a good future. Only time will tell if it’s right or not but I’m optimistic for it.”

Perez knows that his opportunity to drive for the big teams has passed him and is therefore grateful for the opportunity Racing Point have given him. 

"I am realistic. There’s no point right now for me to say that I’m going to have a chance with Mercedes or Ferrari for next year as… there were years that I was close. It hasn’t been for the last years.

“So I have an opportunity with a team I can grow with, so why not?"