Gutierrez holding on to F1 dream with test driver role

Former Haas driver Esteban Gutierrez is holding on with all his might to his F1 dream, claiming to be in discussions for a test driver role with a top tier outfit.

Gutierrez raced in 59 Grand Prix, starting his career with Sauber in 2013 before spending a year on the sidelines with Ferrari as a test driver.

He stepped back in to Formula 1 with Haas in 2016 but failed to score any point with teh US outfit which ultimately replaced the Mexican with Kevin Magnussen for 2017.

Speaking to Autosport, Gutierrez, who will race in a limited number of Formula E events this year, said that remaining an F1 driver is still his top priority.

"I have some options to be in Formula 1 as a test driver, which I'm evaluating," Gutierrez said.

"There are doors still open. Fortunately I have good relationships with many people, which I developed through the years.

"I am focusing on a particular team. It's one of the top teams."

Gutierrez will charge on in Formula E

The 25-year-old insisted however that he was only interested in a testing role if there were also the prospects of a race seat.

"It's about timing. I have worked a lot, and I have to decide whether this can be an option that makes sense for my future.

"I don't want to do things just for the sake of doing them and just to be there [in the F1 paddock]. I want to have something that makes sense."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.