Gutierrez confident he has speed, talent to remain in F1

Esteban Gutierrez says he is confident he has the speed and talent to remain in Formula One, with the Mexican yet to announce his 2017 plans following a challenging campaign at Haas.

Gutierrez returned to a full-time role with the US newcomers after spending one year on the sidelines as Ferrari’s reserve driver. Although the 25-year-old ran Romain Grosjean close in qualifying, failure to score points led to Haas not keeping him.

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“I hope a lot of people are aware of that,” Gutierrez said of his qualifying record against his always rapid team-mate. “Yes, I have been very close and am aware of what I have been doing.

“Honesty, if I didn’t have the speed or talent or feel capable to do it I wouldn’t be trying to do it in F1. I know what I have and what is my speed and I am honest with myself as you have to be in life when doing your best. You push with that.”à

Gutierrez has been in talks with Sauber, where he drove in 2013-14, and Manor for a seat in 2017. When asked whether stepping down to a reserve role once more could also be among his options, the former GP3 Series champion added:

“I want to drive, this is what I like, I think I have the speed and can challenge. The situation has done a lot in the wrong direction for my career is some ways but I do not blame anyone I take responsibility for my own situation and I am working very hard for the best package for my future career.”

Gutierrez will be replaced by Kevin Magnussen in 2017.

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