Nico Hulkenberg is expected to join Renault next season after Force India confirmed his exit from the team at the end of the year.
The German driver had originally agreed to extend his stay at Force India but has since sought to be released from his contract at the Silverstone-based operation.
The move comes amid reports that the 29-year-old has already secured a deal to join Renault for the 2017 campaign, although the French manufacturer is yet to confirm its driver-line up.
Hulkenberg first joined Force India in 2011 as a test driver before stepping up to the race seat the following year.
He joined Sauber for the 2013 season before returning to Force India where he has spent the last three years.
“Everybody at Sahara Force India wishes Nico well as he embarks upon a different path in Formula One,” read a statement from Force India boss Vijay Mallya.
“Having spent five years with us, Nico has become a great friend and contributed a huge amount to the team’s success.
“He’s an outstanding driver, who has scored more points for this team than anybody else.
“While it’s true we will miss Nico, we respect his decision to explore fresh opportunities and it would be wrong to stand in his way.”