Downbeat about his future at the last few grands prix of the season, Sebastien Buemi now sounds confident he will have a place on the 2012 grid.
In the second half of 2011, speculation hinted strongly that the Swiss driver was likely to be ousted by employer Red Bull in order to make room at Toro Rosso for Daniel Ricciardo.
But the latest open secret in F1 circles is that Toro Rosso is sticking with its existing drivers for 2012.
Speaking to Swiss newspaper Le Temps, Buemi sounded relieved.
"I should have news in the next two weeks. But I’m very confident," he said.
"I already have events organised for next year, although confirmation of my place is not there yet.
"I am continuing to work normally, as I have always done, to prepare for the 2012 season."
Buemi insisted he cannot complain about the uncertainty that has been surrounding his formula one career in recent months.
"That’s formula one and that’s what we have to live with — once you’re there, you have to be prepared to withstand the pressure."
He admitted his thoughts are firmly set on racing with Toro Rosso next year and then rising further up the grid.
"To get the best results at Toro Rosso," answered Buemi when asked what his medium and long-term goals are, "and then to go into a team that will allow me to fight at the front.
"I am fortunate to be part of Red Bull, which has the world champion team. It means there are opportunities to go further."