Aston Martin partnership is what Force India needs, says Perez

As reported by Autosport last month, Force India is set for a name change in 2016 if the Aston partnership is completed.

Team principal Vijay Mallya has said he has no qualms about sacrificing the name he gave the team, for long-term gain.

Alongside the name change, it is understood the livery will become blue and gold, as part of a new link-up with Johnnie Walker.

"It's a big brand and you always aim to be linked to big brands, to big manufacturers," Perez told reporters ahead of Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix.

"So if Aston comes, as a racing driver, it will be something very very nice."

Force India is close to securing fifth place in the constructors' championship, which would be its highest-ever finish.

While Perez praised the team's performance on its limited budget, he admitted that it needs partnerships like the Aston Martin tie-up if it wants to better that result.

"To do the next step, we need a better budget," he said.

"I believe in this team. I know the plans for the team next year so I think we're in a good position.

"Hopefully we can secure fifth in the constructors' championship, which is the priority this weekend.

"Next year we have to improve that. If we finish fifth this year, we have to finish fourth in 2016 - and that's a big ask for us.

"The gap right now is quite big."