Sergio Perez has offered a less than convincing response to questions over his future at Racing Point beyond 2020.
This week, speculation has linked Sebastian Vettel to the Mexican's seat for next season, with team owner Lawrence Stroll reportedly set to activate a release clause in Perez's contract, which runs until the end of 2022.
Naturally, the media had plenty of questions about the rumours on Thursday ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, but rather than strongly deny his seat was under risk, Sergio only seemed to add to the likelihood he will be replaced.
"As far as I know, I have a contract,” he said. “The answers to these questions will only be a matter of time. Let's see what happens in the coming weeks.
“In F1 you never know until you start if you are racing, this is just how things are. But from my point of view, I have a contract with the team and I fully believe in the future of the team.”
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On Wednesday, a report in Mexico claimed Perez's manager is talking to other teams and has been doing so for "weeks".
And Checo did reveal, as a result of the speculation, that he has already received enquiries over his availability.
“I know that during the week the rumours came out and we actually got contacted by a team in the paddock. I won’t say names," he said.
“Also other teams in other categories, which was quite a surprise because we have a contract for the next few years here but at the moment there are just rumours around.
“It’s part of the game,” he added. “The team has taken a good step forward so it’s now… it’s good, you know, to have big names related to the team because that means we are making a good job, we are making progress, and I think the team should be proud of it.
“And the rest, I’ve been in F1 for 10 years so I’m used to this stuff.”
As for teammate Lance Stroll, his place at what will become Aston Martin would appear to be concrete as the son of the owner.
However, he may still have to prove himself worthy to his father.
“[I am] determined to stay here," he said.
As for the speculation...
"It’s part of the circus I guess,” Stroll added. “It’s all part of the silly season, rumours and so on. Kind of as expected.
“It’s all part of the fun. It’s normal. We’ll just have to see what happens down the line.”
