Reigning Formula 2 champion Theo Pourchaire says he has been left with "nothing" after a challenging year following his title win.
In past seasons, winning the F2 title almost guaranteed a step into Formula 1, but for 21-year-old Pourchaire, the path has been anything but smooth. The 2022 champion Felipe Drugovich only landed a reserve role with Aston Martin, and Pourchaire himself was initially sent to race in the Japanese Super Formula series.
"It's been very difficult for me," the French driver told RMC. "Coming off the F2 title, it was a dream. I thought it would go smoothly after that. It didn't."
Pourchaire expressed frustration at the lack of opportunities in what he described as a "very closed sport." He added that he hadn't even been given a small chance to "show myself."
Super Formula, where Pourchaire initially competed this season, was a culture shock for the young driver. "It was another world because nobody speaks English," he said, adding that adapting to the different Japanese culture was a struggle. "It was an opportunity for me, but the only one I had during the winter."
Despite that, Pourchaire was optimistic after receiving a call from McLaren to race in their Indycar program, where he initially replaced an injured driver. "After the two races, I was told that I was going to sign a contract until the end of the season. I was super happy," he said.
However, McLaren later pulled out of the deal, leaving Pourchaire feeling disappointed. "They didn't give me many reasons. I'm happy to have been able to show myself, but disappointed because I find myself with nothing. Getting fired in the middle of the season – it came at the worst possible time. The results were pretty good."
Pourchaire had been linked with a possible role at Audi-owned Sauber, given his connections with their development program. However, the Frenchman remains uncertain about his future with the team. "I think the team still hasn't made its choice," he said. "I hope to be their choice, but it could still be difficult."
New Audi F1 chief Mattia Binotto had mentioned Pourchaire as a candidate for a future seat just a month ago, giving the driver a glimmer of hope. "All I can do is tell him to give me a chance," Pourchaire said. "To look at my age and my career. He has no major risk to take me for one year. The transition with Audi will not take place until 2026."
While Pourchaire still dreams of making it to Formula 1, he remains realistic about other opportunities. "F1 is the ultimate dream, but my real wish is to drive. Indycar would please me," he explained. "I have had a lot of contact, but it is also a category that is difficult to access. I would also be happy with endurance in Hypercar."
