News about Sergio Perez’s future may now be imminent.
It has been a hot topic in the F1 paddock recently, after Force India supremo Vijay Mallya said the Mexican has a deal in place for 2017.
Perez, however, is refusing to commit publicly to the Silverstone team, nor refute speculation his Mexican backers could transfer to the works Renault team.
Force India deputy Bob Fernley said at Spa that the team would "very much" like to keep Perez, but acknowledged that his sponsor contracts are "highly sophisticated and complex".
"That’s the negotiation process we’re under now and I would be very surprised if we’re not staying with the two drivers in 2017," he added.
Also linked with a potential move to Renault for 2017 is Williams’ Valtteri Bottas, and Le Mans legend Tom Kristensen told the Danish newspaper BT: "Renault is a team with attractive potential.
"But right now Williams, Force India, Toro Rosso and even Haas are quicker," he added.
Perez, meanwhile, indicated that the uncertainty could end shortly.
Asked when news about his future will be known, the 26-year-old said at Spa: "I hope soon — before the start of the races in Asia."
F1’s European season ends after Sunday’s Italian grand prix at Monza, with the circus then moving on to Singapore, Malaysia and Japan.