Trulli 'not surprised' by Toyota exit

The 35-year-old Italian, who has raced for the Cologne-based outfit since late 2004, was nevertheless upset to find out that he will no longer be working with the team next year.

"This decision doesn't surprise me, even though this doesn't sadden me any less especially for the people in the team, with whom I've had a fine relationship and with whom I hope to be able to work again in the future," Trulli told Gazzetta dello Sport.

Trulli, who has been linked with a switch to the revived Lotus team next year, said that he has received numerous offers of drives for 2010, but that none had come from NASCAR, despite him testing at Charlotte this week for Michael Waltrip Racing.

"This remains just a test, even though I always keep the door open to all opportunities."

"There are some [F1] offers I'm evaluating, but I'll decide after 22 November, when the Toyota Motor Festival in Fuji ends," he added.