Vandoorne satisfied with his F1 career despite claiming it was ill-timed

As a result of Fernando Alonso's big crash in Australia, Vandoorne made his F1 debut as a replacement in the 2016 Bahrain Grand Prix. In 2017 and 2018, Vandoorne got a full-time seat at McLaren. In an exclusive interview with GPblog, the Belgian explained how he reflects on his F1 career.

For Vandoorne 'the timing in F1 was not the right one'

"They were not the easiest years in the end. If you look at a career in motorsport, it's always about results and timing. In my case, the timing was ultimately not right at McLaren," Vandoorne said.

Appealing results failed to materialise; his highest position was seventh. "The car was definitely not good enough during those two years," the 32-year-old continued. "We had a lot of technical problems. The team was in a bit of a revolutionary phase, with a lot of people changing jobs. In terms of results, it was definitely not the best."

Vandoorne is one of the few Belgians who made it to Formula 1. So that is definitely an achievement he is proud of. "It still remains one of the most beautiful experiences I've had. It is not easy to get into Formula 1 as a Belgian, and I am proud of the opportunity I have had."

McLaren currently lead in Formula 1

Currently, his former team, McLaren, lead the Constructors' Championship. Vandoorne said he was not jealous of the British team's performance. "It is what McLaren always was; it was always a top team. They went through a period when it was very difficult for them, with Honda and Renault, and with changes within the team. I think they now have a structure again, which is stable, and that's obviously what they need," he added.

Will Vandoorne remain the reserve driver for Aston Martin in 2025?

The Kortrijk-born driver is still active in Formula 1 but in a different role. He is a reserve driver for the Aston Martin team. It is not yet confirmed whether he will continue in this role next season. Speaking to GPblog the Belgian revealed that he expects to be the reserve driver for the Silverstone-based team next year too. "I think I will still stay with the team," Vandoorne told GPblog. "I have a very busy schedule. It depends a bit on all the other activities. But the priority remains Formula E and WEC. Then I'll see what else I can do with Aston Martin." He added that the deal for 2025 is not yet finalised.

At McLaren, Vandoorne was Alonso's teammate. As a reserve driver at Aston Martin, the Belgian works with the two-time world champion again, but in a very different way. Still, according to Vandoorne, not much has changed in terms of the relationship between the two. "It is not that different. Fernando hasn't changed much in all these years," the Belgian explained.

"He is still hugely motivated and passionate about racing. He is still one of the best on the grid. We have a good relationship. I'm also in a different position now, as a reserve driver. I have my own career in other classes. So maybe there is a bit less pressure between us, but we have a good relationship," Vandoorne said.

Will Vandoorne ever return to the F1 grid?

Vandoorne was asked if he expects to ever return to the F1 grid. "I don't expect that," he said honestly. His focus is on other classes. "That is not something I am working on. If it comes it will be very nice. But I'm realistic. My focus is not there."

"My focus is on WEC and Formula E. Those are the championships I'm competing in now. Then we'll see. It's really nice to still be involved as a reserve driver at Aston Martin. I do simulator work for them and the occasional test with them. It's good to still be within the environment, though," concluded the 2022 Formula E champion.

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