SOCHI, Russia -- Stoffel Vandoorne will not accept a season sat on the sidelines in 2019, with the Belgian's dream scenario being a full racing programme away from Formula One alongside a smaller role with one of its teams.
Vandoorne will not race for McLaren beyond 2018, with the team opting for an all-new line-up of Carlos Sainz and Lando Norris for next season. With the number of remaining seats dwindling Vandoorne has accepted he is almost certain to be off the F1 grid next season.
Although he wants to remain on the radar of F1 teams for 2020, Vandoorne also wants to use the opportunities available in other series to showcase his talent.