Gutierrez targets F1 comeback on back of Mercedes simulator role
Former grand prix driver Esteban Gutierrez says his focus is now on finding a way back to Formula 1, having worked with Mercedes for the past six months
The Mexican has been helping the Brackley team with simulator and development work and believes he has a chance of making an F1 comeback.
He will return to an F1 cockpit for the first time since being dropped by Haas at the end of 2016 this weekend when he demonstrates a Mercedes W07 from the same year as part of the British Grand Prix weekend.
Speaking to Autosport about his plans, Gutierrez said: "This weekend I'll be driving the world championship car of [my last] year, the one that I was following all year as the reference car.
"I've been working with the team from the beginning of this year as a development driver, doing a lot of simulator [work], focusing on my preparation and getting to know the team.
"It's great to be back and I want to thank the team for this opportunity."
Although Gutierrez has made appearances in IndyCar and Formula E in the past 18 months, he said he does not want to give up on his ambitions of returning to F1.
"Both were great opportunities to try what is out there," he said. "I really enjoyed the new challenges, but my aim is Formula 1.
"I feel that I have a lot to give as a driver in Formula 1 and giving up is not an option for me. Anything is possible.
"That's my goal and I am working hard for it."
When asked if his Mercedes role could lead to a test in a 2018 car, Gutierrez said: "I'm hoping for that. My objective is to contribute the team as much as I can."
Gutierrez said he kept news of his Mercedes role quiet because he did not want any distraction from his efforts with the team, but felt that the demonstration run at Silverstone was a good opportunity to speak about it.
"I wanted my space to work quietly, with the team and also on myself, physically, mentally, in every aspect." he added.
"This weekend was a great way to share the news with everyone."
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