Sergey Sirotkin is hoping for a return to competitive Formula 1 action as soon as the 2020 season in a year's time to prove that it was the right decision to move to the sport in the first place, following the loss of his Williams seat for 2019.
The Russian was controversially awarded a seat with Williams in 2018 alongside another rookie, Lance Stroll. Accusations were aimed at the team that Sirotkin was only selected due to the significant financial backing which was brought to the team along with his driving services.
He subsequently earned just one point in the driver's championship, with Williams taking the decision to let him go.
His goal, however, remains to make an impact in F1.
“Certainly it was a difficult experience, but it made me stronger,” said Sirotkin.
“I have a clear understanding that, for objective reasons, I didn’t show everything that I could have shown. But I also have a clear awareness that everything is not finished for me in Formula 1.
???????? It was the most difficult weekend of the year, and it took all what I had physically and mentally to come back in such way! And I will give even more tomorrow! Last one will be the best one!?#SMPRacing#WeAreRacing#F1#AbuDhabiGP ????????
— Sirotkin Sergey (@sirotkin_sergey) November 24, 2018
“I don’t want to give up in any way. I really hope that in a year I will return to the starting grid and prove that it was the right decision to come to Formula 1.”
As for his current plans, Sirotkin revealed that his driving destination should be revealed after the New Year.
“Now we are trying to collect all the options, but I think there will be no specifics in the next two weeks," the former Williams man continued.
“If there is something, then at best it will be after the New Year holidays.”