Daniel Juncadella says he won't wait for F1 chance

The Spanish racer has dovetailed racing in the DTM for Mercedes with reserve driver duties for Force India this season, which include simulator running, testing and occasional Friday free practice duties at grands prix.

Juncadella says he is pushing to secure a race drive in F1 for next season, but would prefer to race in the DTM rather than continuing as a reserve driver for another year.

"Honestly I think it's useful to have a year as a reserve driver, but I have to say I wouldn't do another one," Juncadella said, when asked by AUTOSPORT about his plans.

"When you do a year as a reserve it's a good preparation for being an official driver, so my goal for next year is to get a seat.

"Another year in a reserve role would make no sense."

AUTOSPORT understands Force India intends to retain its current line-up of Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Perez for next season, which means Juncadella would likely have to look elsewhere for the race seat he wants.

When asked by AUTOSPORT how realistic his F1 prospects were, Juncadella said: "It's hard to say because there has to be a place for me, so there has to be movement within the teams.

"We will see; it's still early. The positive things are that I have some experience with the car and my long-term sponsor is willing to keep helping me.

"At the moment I'm racing in DTM and it's a championship that I love.

"I would keep going; I'm not really going crazy about F1.

"I have people who are really willing to help me towards the goal, and if there's a free seat I will probably go for it, but in any case I'm not thinking too much about Formula 1.

"If there's no chance I won't worry too much. DTM is a great championship and Mercedes is happy with me."