Sergio Perez has extended his stay with Force India into a third season after putting pen to paper on a new contract.
The Mexican driver had been linked with a move to Lotus, who are in discussions with Renault over a buy-out deal.
But Force India have confirmed that Perez will partner Nico Hulkenberg for a third consecutive season ahead of this week's Japanese Grand Prix.
Perez, who joined the team after one year at McLaren in 2014, said: "I am very happy to confirm that I will be staying with Sahara Force India. It means I can simply focus on the important stuff - driving the car and scoring points for the team.
"Since coming here I've really grown as a driver and I feel I'm performing at my best. I've always said I want to establish myself in a team and it's the right moment to announce my commitment for the future with Sahara Force India.
"I can feel the potential in the team and there is a good energy, which gives me confidence for next year. I think we can continue to deliver strong results and I will do my best to help drive the team forward."
Vijay Mallya, Force India team principal, added: "I'm very happy Sergio has committed his future to Sahara Force India. He's done a fantastic job for us already and when we give him a competitive car we know he can get the job done.
"He's also got a great attitude and never gives up - it's that fighting spirit which fits well with this team. You only have to look at his results in the last three races to see that he is performing at the top of his game.
"It's an exciting time for Sergio, especially with the upcoming race in Mexico next month, and with our close connections to the country I'm sure it will be a highlight for everybody in the team."
Perez has scored 39 points this season and is 9th in the championship. The heavily-backed Mexican has finished in the top 10 in five of the last six races.
His decision to stay at a Force India completes another piece in the puzzle for next year with the driver market so far remaining relatively unchanged for the 2016 campaign.
Source: PA
