Jules Bianchi eyes non-Formula 1 racing programme alongside Force India role

The Frenchman has competed in the F1 supporting GP2 series for the past two seasons, finishing third in 2010 and '11.

He has landed a deal to drive on Friday mornings on at least nine grand prix weekends, but the Ferrari protege is also closing on a chance to keep racing somewhere in 2012 to stay sharp.

"We are working on it," said Bianchi. "We are not sure yet, but I will try to have another programme as well [as F1]."

Bianchi's manager Nicolas Todt told AUTOSPORT that a race deal elsewhere would complement his F1 responsibilities well.

"I think it's important for Jules to keep driving, keep racing," Todt said. "At least nine [grand prix] Fridays is good, but it's not huge mileage. With Ferrari and Force India we are looking at different possibilities.

"The main thing is I am very pleased that Jules has signed as third driver at Force India, because we have seen in the past it is the best team for giving a chance to young drivers.

"They know how to work with young drivers, and it is the best opportunity he could have apart from a race drive in Formula 1."

Bianchi and Todt would not be drawn on where the 22-year-old could end up racing, but a return to GP2 is unlikely given the proximity of its sessions to F1 running on GP weekends.