Stoffel Vandoorne will remain test driver at McLaren

Despite his title won this year in the GP2 Series, Stoffel Vandoorne will still have to wait before hoping for a start in F1. The Belgian confirmed on the McLaren-Honda website thathe will remain a test pilot and reservist within the British team in 2016 while waiting for Fernando Alonso or Jenson Button gives up his place.

“I really want to race somewhere next year, but we don’t know if it will be possible”, explained Stoffel Vandoorne. “However, there are several options and we are discussing them. In any case, I will remain a test pilot and reservist at McLaren, which remains a good place. I want to stay alert and focused in order to remain 100% ready if an opportunity presents itself in F1. »

Stoffel Vandoorne would be interested in Japan since he will participate in Super Formula rookie tests at the end of the month, a championship whose dates would allow him to follow the F1 meetings in 2016. “Super Formula is clearly a good car, at least as fast as a GP2 or even more efficient. It’s an option but nothing has been decided yet”, said the 2012 Eurocup Formula champion Renault 2.0. “There's not too much power, but the cornering speed is impressive. They are undoubtedly more comfortable in the corners than the current F1 cars…”