Perez now managed by Indycar’s Adrian Fernandez

2013 McLaren driver Sergio Perez is being managed by former Indycar driver and fellow Mexican Adrian Fernandez.

McLaren, who have signed current Sauber driver Perez to replace Lewis Hamilton, confirmed the 22-year-old’s professional link to Fernandez, 47.

Fernandez - an owner of racing teams as well - has also been backed through his career by Perez’s sponsor Telmex, but Fernandez denied Perez is still a "pay driver".

"He is not bringing money to the (McLaren) team," he insisted.

Switzerland’s Blick newspaper estimated Perez’s new three-year contract to be worth EUR 10 million.

"I have been a successful driver and a successful team owner and now, with this, I hope I can be a successful manager and do a fantastic job for Sergio," added Fernandez.