Sirotkin clings to his dream: 'I can't quit like that'

Sergey Sirotkin will be out of F1 at the end of the day, but it will be unfinished business as far as the Russian driver is concerned.

The announcement this week of the return to the fray of Robert Kubica has knocked Sirotkin out of Williams after a single year, and with no place to go on the F1 grid for the 23-year-old.

Sirotking will retain the backing of SMP racing in 2019 although where and when that support will be involved is unknown. An endeavor into the WEC could be possible but the Russian insists his priority in the future will remain Formula 1.

Sirotkin backer SMP 'unpleasantly surprised' by Williams

"There are no plans yet," he said in Abu Dhabi.

"As for the WEC, I do not know. The priority is Formula 1. I have not finished everything here and honestly, knowing what I can do and what I couldn't do for objective reasons, I can't quit like that.

"We are working on it, and I don't know what the options are, but I am sure there will be opportunities. But I will fight for a return in 2020," he added.

Despite his ousting from Williams, a dignified Sirotkin hopes the Grove-based outfit will improve its performance next season and move up the grid.

"I hope they improve," said the Russian, who will line up alongside team mate Lance Stroll on the last row of Sunday's Abu Dhabi GP grid.

"I gave a lot to this team and their success and the smiles on their faces would mean a lot to me.

"I am sorry I will not be there with them, but with all my heart I wish them the best. I know how much they deserve it."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.