Force India remains in talks with Aston Martin about a possible tie-up for 2016, which Sergio Perez believes can only be a good thing.
The British sportscar company is looking to buy a stake in the team which would give it naming rights, whilst spirits company Diageo, which owns brands such as Smirnoff and Johnnie Walker, are thought to be interested in taking a stake.
Diageo loaned current team owner Vijay Mallya £85 million ($130m), which has gone unpaid, therefore they are looking at taking shares in the team in exchange for writing off some or all of the debt.
The team would likely be known as Aston Martin Racing with heavy sponsorship from Diageo’s brands, giving the team a blue and gold livery.
The deal would provide Force India with a budget boost, which Perez says is vital if they’re to finish higher up the standings next year.
“It’s a big brand and you always aim to be linked to big brands, to big manufacturers,” said the Mexican. “So if Aston comes, as a racing driver, it will be something very very nice.
“To do the next step, we need a better budget,” he added. “I believe in this team. I know the plans for the team next year so I think we’re in a good position.
“Hopefully we can secure fifth in the constructors’ championship, which is the priority this weekend.
“Next year we have to improve that. If we finish fifth this year, we have to finish fourth in 2016 – and that’s a big ask for us.”
Discussion about this post