Following months of speculation regarding the future of the Briton, who was going to be replaced by Sainz for next season anyway, he revealed after qualifying that Sunday's race in Suzuka will be his final one with the team.

Writing on Instagram, he said: "Tomorrow's Japanese GP will be my last race for Renault. With my grid penalty I'll be starting near the back but I will be giving it my all as always. Thanks everyone for the support during the last 2 years, it means a lot!"

Renault has confirmed that Palmer will be leaving the team after this weekend, but it has not yet announced who will replace him.

However, it is likely that Sainz will be drafted across from Toro Rosso.

Sainz's switch will then give an opportunity for Daniil Kvyat to return to action, and also makes it likely that Pierre Gasly will race in Austin rather than return to Super Formula for the Suzuka finale.

Palmer has faced doubts about his immediate future at the team ever since it emerged that Sainz had been signed for 2018.

However, his sixth-place finish in the Singapore Grand Prix initially appeared to ease pressure on Renault regarding Palmer's place at the team.

It is unclear why a decision was made to end their relationship at this moment.