Perez: It hurts knowing you're leaving a good car

Making way for four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel at the end of the season, Perez will be leaving behind a car at Racing Point that is already capable of contending for podiums, and will receive a further boost when Aston Martin takes it over as a works outfit next year.

“I know I’m leaving a great car that is looking great for next year,” Perez told Motorsport Week. “Definitely the team will be stronger next year than this year.

“In that regard it hurts a bit more that you know you’re leaving a good car."

Having voiced an intention to stay in F1, Perez's most realistic options would be lower-tier seats at either Haas or Alfa Romeo, although he has also been tentatively linked with a drive at Red Bull.

Wherever he lands, the Mexican hopes his team can affect a similar turnaround to that enjoyed by Racing Point.

"You never know in the future, things in Formula 1 change so quickly," he said.

“Let’s see what the future holds for the world, for both of us.”