F1: Renault was a serious option, Perez says

Sergio Perez says a move to the likely Renault works Formula 1 team next season was "a serious option" before he ultimately committed to Force India.

The Mexican had been linked to driving for the French manufacturer, which is close to taking over the Lotus team for 2016. But on Thursday, Force India announced Perez would stay for a third season, partnering Nico Hulkenberg who had already re-signed for next year.

When asked if the fact Renault had yet to confirm its plans for next year was a reason for him choosing Force India, Perez said: "No, it is nothing to do with that. It was obviously a serious option but for me, I always made my mind clear, knowing the prospects of the team, knowing what we are doing behind the scenes. That's why I always wanted to stay and I'm very happy to stay.

"You always listen to other options and offers. Renault, if they come, are a very attractive team, but I knew the best for me and the best place available was staying here."

Hulkenberg's contract extension was announced at the beginning of the month with Perez saying his deal, which is for one year with an option to extend, took a little longer because his sponsors wanted to agree their terms with the team first.

"My deal is bit more complex," said Perez. "I'm very fortunate and lucky I have a group of sponsors behind me, and they always want to make sure they do their deal first and then I do mine, so that's why it always takes a bit of time.

"In the contract there are always options. It's not always as straightforward as it appears." [My contract] is one year plus if the option comes, it's a second year."

2016 F1 DRIVER LINEUP

Mercedes: Lewis Hamilton/Nico Rosberg
Ferrari: Sebastian Vettel/Kimi Raikkonen
Williams: Valtteri Bottas/Felipe Massa
Red Bull: Daniel Ricciardo/Daniil Kvyat*
Force India: Nico Hulkenberg/Sergio Perez
Lotus: Pastor Maldonado/TBA
Toro Rosso: Max Verstappen*/TBA
Sauber: Marcus Ericsson/Felipe Nasr
McLaren: Fernando Alonso/TBA
Manor: TBA
Haas: TBA

* likely but not confirmed

Originally on Autosport.com