Sergio Perez confirms 2017 Force India F1 deal

It emerged ahead of qualifying for the Malaysian Grand Prix that Perez's backers had finally concluded commercial agreements with the team and he would be staying on for a fourth consecutive season.

Perez was heavily linked with Renault, however, it is understood the situation behind the scenes at the French manufacturer resulted in him opting to keep faith with Force India.

Perez said: "I'm very happy with this team and I have a good feeling for the future.

"I've seen the progress we've made over last couple of years and I'm sure we have the potential to achieve even more.

"The team knows me well and it's important to have stability, especially with some big rule changes planned for next year.

"I'm excited for the rest of this season, and for the challenge that awaits all of us in 2017.

"I thank all the team for believing in me and I will do my best to repay their faith with points, podiums and hopefully wins.

"I also want to thank our Mexican partners, especially Telmex and Telcel, who have been supporting me since I was a young boy.

"They continue to play an important role in my journey through the sport."

Perez finished sixth in the race in Sepang, and with team-mate Nico Hulkenberg eighth, Force India has now edged three points clear of Williams in the battle for fourth place in the constructors' championship.