Perez 'believes' he will move to a top team in 2019

Sergio Perez has revealed his belief that he will move up the grid to a better team in 2019 when a plethora of other driver's contracts expire, including Daniel Ricciardo of Red Bull, Kimi Raikkonen of Ferrari, and Valtteri Bottas of Mercedes.

The Mexican driver has already performed for a larger team before as he moved to McLaren in 2013 after a couple of impressive seasons featuring for Sauber. However, the move did not work out and he eventually left for Force India where he has grown as a driver and has claimed four podium spots since the move.

Perez expects a driver shuffle in 2019 due to the may contracts which expire, and thinks he is in with a shout of moving up the grid as he has proved his worth and paid his dues with Force India.

"It's such an important year," he said

"There will be a lot of movements around Formula 1 in 2019 so it's important to be quick from the beginning next year. I believe in F1, everyone is looking at you not only in one race or one year but many years. When you look at what I've done in the last few years, I believe I'm in a good position.

"I believe if the opportunity ever comes, I am totally prepared, very complete on the aspects as a driver and a person," he continued.

"That can make a big difference if the opportunity ever comes. I believe I will move up the grid, I believe there will be a chance."

Perez failed to make it on to the podium in the 2017 campaign, but still helped Force India to their best ever points total. He is eager to prove he can do a lot more.

"I've shown what I can do in Formula 1 but I want more and I feel that I can do a lot more than this."