Sergey Sirotkin is hoping he is now a contender for Williams' second seat despite all signs pointing to Robert Kubica racing for the British team next year.
The Russian driver was given a run in the Grove-based outfit's FW40 at this week's Pirelli tyre test in Abu Dhabi.
Whether Williams has a genuine interest in the 22-year-old's services or whether the team just took in a lavish one-off payment from Sirotkin's backers SMP is unclear, but he acquitted himself well at the test and wants the coveted drive.
"What is certain is that I am not here at the test to enjoy the sun," he said on Wednesday in Yas Marina.
"I cannot hope for a Renault seat in the immediate future, but it's a privilege to be able to work with different teams at the highest level.
"It's really hard not to have a seat and just be the reserve," he added.
"I know I'm learning a lot but I need adrenaline."
The Russian obviously met Kubica this week, and even had a lengthy chat with Bobby-K about their respective experiences behind the wheel of the FW40.
"I met Robert for the first time and he's very open and nice," he said.
"He happily talked to me and we could compare our times even if that doesn't mean much. The main thing for him was to have been able to drive at a good level.
"I think what he has done is really exceptional," Sirotkin admitted.
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