Vandoorne: Good feeling about 2017 chances

Although Stoffel Vandoorne’s discussions about a 2017 race-seat are ongoing, he says he has a “very good feeling” about it.

The 24-year-old Belgian racer is in line to replace Jenson Button at McLaren for next year’s championship.

However, at present talks are still taking place and nothing has been set in stone.

“Discussions are ongoing I think; it’s pretty normal at this stage,” he told GPUpdate.net.

“I still want to be in Formula 1 next year, it’s definitely my target, and I have a very good feeling about it, that I will be there – hopefully that will be with McLaren.

“I have a contract here and it’s definitely the place I want to be, [but] if for some reason this can’t happen then I’m confident that there are other options available.”

The McLaren test driver, who filled in for the injured Fernando Alonso at the Bahrain GP where he finished in 10th place, downplays suggestions that next year’s rule changes could influence McLaren’s decision.

“I don’t know, I’m a racing driver, I feel I can perform in any car,” he said.

“I’ve won almost in every car I’ve driven, so I’m pretty sure I can guide the team and I feel ready to do that. I feel 100 percent ready for it, it’s just I need to wait and get the time now.”