Ticktum could 'forget motorsport' if F1 isn't possible

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Former Red Bull junior Dan Ticktum is still hopeful of finding a path to F1, but the 20-year-old won't hold on to his dreams forever.

Last year, Ticktum appeared to be next in line in Red Bull's junior driver programme to step up to F1, but disappointing results in Super Formula, where he had been sent to hone his skills, led to him being pulled-out from the Japanese series and dropped by the energy drink company.

But rumors are now linking Ticktum to a Formula 2 seat with DAMS in 2020, an opportunity - likely his last - that would put the double Macau GP winner back on a path to F1.

"We’ve got something sorted [for next year], I can’t go into more detail than that," Ticktum told Motorsport.com.

"A lot of people will know which direction I’ll be going in. It will all come out very soon.

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"F1 is the end goal. I’ve been like that since I started going down the single-seater route.

"If I can’t get to F1, I’ll probably – unless I get a very good deal in something else – I’ll probably forget motorsport if I’m honest.

"You never know when you’re in the situation, if you don’t get to F1 and you’re given an amazing Formula E contract, you probably wouldn’t turn it down.

"It’s very different when you’re in the position [being offered something outside of F1], but the end goal is very much Formula 1.

"I’m always quite realistic with my goals and I think it is realistic. If I didn’t think it was realistic, I’d say. I do still think it’s a possibility."

Ticktum believes a good season in the FIA's top feeder series "will open a lot of doors", even perhaps that of Red Bull!

"I’ve had interest from a few people and a few teams, they’re all saying more or less the same thing, which is 'go and prove yourself in what I’ll be doing next year'.

"Hopefully if I have a good year next year, I think that will open a lot of doors. Even Red Bull’s, who knows."

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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.