Vandoorne looking outside of F1 for drive in 2019

Stoffel Vandoorne is apparently looking outside of F1 for a drive next season after McLaren announced they would be replacing him in 2019 with their highly-rated junior driver, Lando Norris. The Belgian has been outperformed by teammate Fernando Alonso since joining the team full-time in 2017.

Speaking to Belgian broadcaster RTFB, Vandoorne admitted that his chances of staying in F1 for next season were next to none, with seats filling very quickly as the F1 silly season draws to a close.

"Staying in F1 is still possible, but the chances are very, very, very small," he explained. "The market has changed a lot over the last weeks, but nothing is decided yet. We're even looking outside of F1, and I hope to have something very soon.

"There are other championships where the level is very high and where there are a lot of people who still believe in my talent. I'm still the driver I was before who is able to win races and championships. I am convinced that in another environment I can do it again."

Vandoorne was warned by McLaren CEO Zak Brown earlier in the year that his performances would have to improve if he wanted to remain a McLaren driver for next season however the 26-year-old was unable to impress and keep his seat.