Kovalainen hopes to earn a seat in 2007

The Finn, who team boss Flavio Briatore said last year was '90 percent certain' to be racing for Renault in 2007, has not yet talked with the team management to discuss his future prospects but claims he is optimistic.

"Flavio hasn't said anything to me yet, but of course it is no secret that I want to race," said Kovalainen. "But I think we will have to wait and see how this year goes and how I manage in the car.

"I believe in myself and believe I have a good chance to get a race driver, but there is no point talking about it at the moment because we don't know what is going to happen."

When asked whether Alonso's switch to McLaren had boosted his chances, the Finn said: "It was a big surprise but it doesn't make a big difference for me. I hope wherever Fernando goes I can make my own career and earn a race seat through my own ability rather than through people leaving."

Kovalainen had the chance to race for BMW-Sauber this year but it is understood his manager Briatore rejected an offer for him because he did not want to release the Finn for more than one year.

Although that decision means Kovalainen will only be testing this year, the man himself is far from upset - and believes that ultimately he has made the right decision to bide his time in the hope of getting a Renault race seat.

"The best way for me (to race) would be to go with the best team. Part of the decision we took this year was that I wanted to be in a good car and my management wanted to put me in a good car rather than go the other way.

"We will see if it is the right choice, but I think it is the best way."