Latifi resigned to end of F1 career: 'I don't see myself returning'

Nicholas Latifi does not see himself returning to Formula 1, even as a reserve driver. In the Beyond the Grid podcast, he largely dismisses that possibility.

After three unimpressive years, Latifi will leave Formula 1 at the end of this season. The Canadian will be replaced by Logan Sargeant. Resigned to his fate, Latifi acknowledges that this is just how motorsport works: at the end of the day, there are only 20 seats available, if you do not impress, you are gone.

Reserve driver is very unlikely to be an option for Latifi

Of course, there are ways to stay involved in the sport, for example by taking a spot as a reserve driver. Nico Hulkenberg, Antonio Giovinazzi and Stoffel Vandoorne have stayed connected to Formula 1 that way and Daniel Ricciardo now seems to be pursuing that as a plan to make a comeback in 2024. Even Latifi's current teammate Alexander Albon has managed to get back on track this year that way. Yet Latifi does not see himself doing that.

"Obviously Alex has shown that it is possible, but he was in a completely different situation at Red Bull than I am now," Latifi says. "I don't see myself being a reserve driver for an extended period, without potentially winning back a seat in Formula One with it. But if I don't find anything that suits me for next year, I'll keep all my options open."

What he will then do next year is still unknown but Latifi does make it clear he will seek out other racing classes. IndyCar and Formula E seem to be the most logical candidates then.