He insists his F1 career is not dead yet, but a future in the German touring car series DTM looks more likely for Nick Heidfeld.
The veteran of 183 grands prix lost his race seat at Renault earlier this year and has barely featured in the 2012 ’silly season’.
"I can also imagine doing something different," the 34-year-old German acknowledged to DPA news agency.
"I hope to be able to offer my loyal fans some action pretty soon," added Heidfeld.
If not F1, the DTM series looks to be Heidfeld’s best bet, with his former formula one employer BMW fielding cars in 2012.
But talks with Mercedes are also rumoured, such as a role split between a reserve and advisory position at grands prix and a DTM race cockpit.
"I am definitely interested in DTM next season, whether I am a driver or even a spectator," Heidfeld admitted to Germany’s Sport1.
"There are also some other interesting series; I’ve never made a secret of my liking for the unique atmosphere of the 24 hours of Le Mans," he added.