Perez has multiple options for 2019

Sergio Perez says he has multiple options for the 2019 Formula 1 season, as the takeover at Force India by Lance Stroll's father makes competition tough inside the team. Stroll is almost certain to move from Williams, with Esteban Ocon and Perez crapping to join him.

Ocon had appeared set for a move to Renault until the French team pulled off a sensational swoop for Daniel Ricciardo.

Mercedes are unlikely to consider a situation where their junior driver is absent from the grid in 2019, so will likely put pressure on their customer team to keep hold of the Frenchman.

It could leave Perez looking for options, despite having secured all but one of Force India's podium finishes in their F1 history, however he has been linked with Haas and Sauber and the Mexican is confident he will remain on the grid next year.

"I'm lucky enough to have a couple of options," he said.

"Obviously we all want to be driving in the top two teams, Ferrari or Mercedes.

"But it's very unlikely that I'll have an opportunity there for next year, so you have to look at what is the best option for your future where you can show your best talents.

"The last two years, the best of the rest in the drivers' championship. I just want to see what's possible for next year, which teams have a vacancy, and then decide.

"I will definitely wait to see what happens here, because I believe this team has the most potential of anyone out there out of the top three teams."

Perez raced for Sauber in 2011 and 2012, taking three podiums in his second season before joining McLaren.