Bianchi hints at ‘important role’ for 2012

Jules Bianchi

(GMM) Jules Bianchi has hinted strongly he is set to ramp up his push for a formula one race seat during the course of the 2012 season.

The French 22-year-old, managed by Nicolas Todt and a development and reserve driver for Ferrari, has been linked in recent days to the newly vacant test and 'Friday practice' seat at Force India.

In 2011, Nico Hulkenberg used that role with the Silverstone based team to remain in the paddock following his Williams ousting, and then bounce back onto the grid for 2012 with a full race seat.

Bianchi told French radio RCM: "I will try to play an important role in formula one (this year) in order to gather as much information and experience as I can and get a cockpit in 2013.

"The goal is to find a team that allows me the most mileage and (at the same time) I can still stay with Ferrari," he added.

Bianchi has raced the feeder series GP2 for the past two years, disappointing some experts with his single win and third in the standings this year, 36 points behind champion Romain Grosjean.

He said: "I feel ready for F1 already in 2012, but I must stay on the ground. It's a little hard, but that's what formula one is like.

"I will not give up and will try for a fresh start in 2013," added Bianchi.