Brazilian GP: Sergio Perez sad to see Sauber stint end in crash

The Mexican, who will drive for McLaren next year, was involved the third-corner crash in which Bruno Senna made contact with world champion Sebastian Vettel.

Perez's car was too badly damaged to continue, which meant he has failed to score any points in the six races following the McLaren deal announcement.

"A very sad way to end my career at Sauber," Perez said.

"I was gaining some positions going into the first corner and then suddenly I was on the inside to try and avoid some contact and then everybody came into me - I think Bruno and Sebastian.

"So I had very big damage to the car. A very sad way to end my season."

Team-mate Kamui Kobayashi, still without a drive for next year, finished in ninth position in his last race with the Swiss squad.

The Japanese driver was pleased with his performance, despite a late spin when making contact with Michael Schumacher.

"Overall I think it was a really good race," he said. "I was able to do my own race and fight. I am happy for the team and for myself that we have scored points in this our last race together.

"I want to thank Sauber for the good times we have had and now I will try to find myself a Formula 1 cockpit for next year."