Kvyat, who made his NASCAR debut at Indianapolis in July, visited the Monza paddock last weekend.
At 28, he remains a credible candidate for a future F1 drive, but only if he can overcome the issues associated with his nationality.
In essence he would have to sign an FIA commitment and race under a neutral flag and not show support for Russia in any way, as per the decision made by the World Motor Sport Council in March. It’s also understood that he may be able to race under an Italian licence.
Whether any F1 team would be willing to associate itself with a driver who hitherto has raced as a Russian is another matter.
Kvyat started 110 Grands Prix between 2014 and 2020 for the two Red Bull-backed teams, and he spent the 2018 season as Ferrari’s reserve driver.
His last F1 role was Alpine’s reserve in 2021, and he also took part in three days of Pirelli tyre testing for the Enstone outfit.
Kvyat visited the team’s hospitality building at Monza, and while it was mainly a social call to see former colleagues, he also met with team principal Otmar Szafnauer. However, Alpine has indicated that he is not under consideration for the seat vacated by Fernando Alonso.
Daniil Kvyat, Team Hezeberg, Hezeberg Systems Toyota Camry
Photo by: Jasen Vinlove / NKP / Motorsport Images
Nevertheless Kvyat insists that he hasn’t ruled out a possible future return to F1.
“I think you never say never,” he told Autosport. “But at the moment of course the timing, let’s say, is not ideal for that, perhaps. Hopefully one day we can talk about it again. Right now I am racing in NASCAR, I’m welcome there. Didn’t have any issues, really. We plan to do some more races this year.
“I’m happy. I always wanted to try myself in NASCAR, as you know, I’ve been mentioning this, in a way a little dream came true. Of course, to get really on top there, it might take time, but I’m patient, and careers in NASCAR can be really long, if you build it right. I’m curious to see how far I could go there.
“And of course, F1 as always has a special place in my heart. And who knows, hopefully, one day, we can talk about it again, I’m still young. As some people show you can come back after a little break and still do well.”
Kyvat insisted that he can overcome any issues associated with his nationality and race in a European-based championship.
“I am open. And I think also here in Europe, in the USA I have green lights from most categories. So there was some period…
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