Toro Rosso's Kvyat was getting nervous about 2017 F1 drive

The Russian's hopes beyond the end of 2016 had been the subject of speculation and scrutiny since he was demoted from Red Bull's top team back to its junior F1 squad before the Spanish Grand Prix in May.

While Kvyat has been out-scored by Carlos Sainz Jr in their time as team-mates, and Red Bull had GP2 title contender Pierre Gasly in the wings, he ultimately earned a new deal.

Toro Rosso chief Franz Tost highlighted the importance of continuity entering 2017's major technical rule changes.

"It was getting to the point where it was important to know [plans for 2017] because otherwise it would have started to be nervous times," Kvyat said.

"And they were starting to be nervous times.

"I wasn't standing still, I was looking for the answers. I was getting a bit impatient in a way.

"I'm grateful to Red Bull I got these answers early on."

Kvyat, who made his F1 debut in 2014 with Toro Rosso, said he received interest from rival teams, but is pleased he is remaining within Red Bull.

"It is distracting, it's not the nicest feeling," he said.

"On the other hand, it's good to see there was interest somewhere else as well, which wasn't a bad thing.

"What and where, there is no point discussing this because now I'm now fixed with Toro Rosso and there is nothing else that needs to be spoken about.

"Red Bull gave me a chance and I know this team [Toro Rosso].

"Changing teams consistently means no consistency.

"Next year, it seems it offers opportunities to everyone and we hope to be the ones that will be making the most out of it.

"I feel like I still have a lot to give and a lot to show, and I'm grateful it was Red Bull to give me the opportunity and not someone else."