Perez believes 2020 is key for Racing Point's future in the F1 pecking order

Sergio Perez feels that 2020 will be vital in Racing Point's progression up the F1 ladder following a season of transition. The Mexican scored 71% of the team's points this season as the team ended in seventh in the constructors' championship.

Perez himself secured 52 points, ending up in tenth in the drivers' standings.

“Although it’s been a very difficult year in terms of pace, a slow start and so on. I cannot wait already for 2020, I think it’s a big year ahead for us," Perez said after Abu Dhabi.

“I think we managed to improve step-by-step but obviously not enough. I don’t think we got close enough to McLaren, they were strong this year.

“Renault were a step ahead but it’s been very close to Toro Rosso I think.

"They obviously did a better job than us and scored plenty of points when the opportunities were there, so that made a huge difference in the midfield when you are able to score big points.”