Vandoorne ‘optimistic’ about F1 seat

Now that he has clinched the GP2 title, Stoffel Vandoorne is hoping to step up talks about securing a Formula 1 seat for 2016.

The McLaren reserve driver has dominated the series this campaign and it was no surprise when he wrapped up the title in Sochi on Sunday, even though there are still two rounds remaining.

The Belgian, though, has been tipped for bigger things with many believing he deserves a seat on the F1 grid.

There was initially talk that he could replace Jenson Button at McLaren, but the Woking squad opted to retain the 2009 World Champion alongside Fernando Alonso.

There are only a couple of vacant seats left, but Vandoorne is still hopeful he will find a spot.

"[Formula One is] something I've been working on for quite some time, and now to have the GP2 title here is a bit of a luxury I would say with two rounds to go," he said.

"The next [race] is in over a month, so I can concentrate on preparing next year which is great. Unfortunately, nothing is decided for the moment, but I'm optimistic. I feel there are some chances out there. The next days and weeks are going to be crucial for next year."