Friday role not the priority as d’Ambrosio eyes 2012

Jerome d’Ambrosio remains confident he can keep his new formula one racing career alive in 2012.

The Belgian, backed by sponsors and managed by the Eric Boullier-led Gravity group, has lost his race seat at Virgin/Marussia after his solid debut season this year.

But he insists he remains in the running for one of the remaining places on the 2012 grid.

"For me, nothing has really changed since Brazil," he is quoted by La Derniere Heure, a French-language Belgian newspaper.

"Not even the signing of Romain Grosjean with Lotus-Renault, as it has never really been an option for me.

"One way or another, I will be in F1 in 2012. And a reserve role is not the priority at the moment."

The Belgian newspaper said HRT, Caterham and Williams are the teams targeted by d’Ambrosio’s management.

Heading d’Ambrosio’s management by Gravity is Benjamin Mignot, who said he has "high hopes" to see his charge "on the grid in 2012".

"At this stage we are still in discussions with three of the five teams that have seats for 2012," said Mignot.

"To tell the truth, we have been able to raise so far a very reasonable amount for a very consistent driver — to develop a car, it’s not just about money.

"Even if it doesn’t work out, there are third driver positions where you can even drive on the Fridays at grands prix," added Mignot.