Christian Klien has not given up hope of returning to Formula 1 racing this year, despite being beaten to the one remaining Sauber seat by veteran Pedro de la Rosa.
Klien had been in protracted negotiations with the Hinwil-based squad – for which he has been a test driver since 2008 – but team principal Peter Sauber ultimately chose the ultra-experienced de la Rosa to partner rookie Kamui Kobayashi.
Although disappointed by the decision, the 26-year-old Austrian says he is pursuing other options and is in “serious” talks with two teams.
“There are still a few seats up for grabs,” he told his website.
“I have been approached by several teams throughout the 2009 season.
“With two of those teams I am currently in serious negotiations.
“My goal is to be racing in F1 this season and I still have every chance to achieve that.”
Only Renault, Campos and US F1 still have vacancies, and Klien hinted that the French manufacturer – which recently sold a 75% stake in its F1 team to Genii Capital – was one of the teams he was talking to.
“A few teams are under new ownership, which results in new management and new strategic emphasis here and there,” he noted.
“In those teams decisions will take a little longer with new people in place and a whole new framework.”
Klien believes the “massive restructuring” that F1 is undergoing means the final driver signings might be made on the eve of the season.
“Theoretically the decision about drivers can be made right before the first race in Bahrain in March,” he said.
But he added: “Common sense tells us though that it makes sense to have your line-up ready before you go testing, which will be at the beginning of February or mid-February depending on the teams.”
Asked whether he would consider a fourth year as a test and reserve driver, Klien said it would be very much a fallback option.
“The clear goal is to race,” he said.
“With all the test restrictions the job of a test driver is not as attractive as it was some time ago.
“Still, you have to weigh this option carefully.
“Last season, no fewer than five reserve drivers were called upon in 10 teams to replace a racing driver. Statistically the job makes sense.
“Still, my plan is to go racing. That is top of the list. And I still see a fair chance to be on the grid in 2010.”
Klien last raced in F1 with Red Bull Racing in 2006, since when he has been on the testing bench and raced sports cars for Peugeot.
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