Vandoorne: I have similar speed to Alonso and Button

One of the common denominators among the young up-and-coming crop of drivers knocking on the door of Formula 1 is that none lack confidence, Stoffel Vandoorne is probably the most confident of all and believes he can match both Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso on track.

The Belgian was on duty for McLaren at Silverstone earlier this week, having made his debut for injured Alonso in Bahrain where he shone on his way to scoring the team's first points of the season.

Asked by media at Silverstone if he was capable of delivering technical feedback, Vandoorne replied, "Yes I see no reason why not. I've driven an F1 grand prix, quite a few days in an F1 car now and proven I have similar speed to [Alonso and Button]."

Vandoorne has ramped up his bid to get a seat on the 2017 grid, making it quite clear that if he does not get the drive with McLaren (in place of Button) he has other options to explore.

Paddock information suggests that he is high on the Renault 'shopping' list to replace under-performing Jolyon Palmer.

Vandoorne said as much during the Q&A with reporters,"The main goal is to be in F1 next year, that hasn't changed, I am contracted to McLaren and I want to be with this team next year. I've spent a lot of time with the team and engineers and feel we've been through a perfect preparation."

"There is not much more I can really do to get the drive now. I would love to race for this team but I've always said if for some reason it doesn't become possible I am positive that there are other options available."

Vandoorne is currently campaigning in the Japanese Super Formula, alongside his McLaren reserve driver commitments and is adamant that there are interested parties in the F1 paddock.

"I think everybody is interested in what I am doing. This year I see as a preparation year for next year and my main focus is still to get an F1 drive next year. I will focus on my role as the reserve driver but having a racing programme alongside that is a good benefit to stay race fit and sharp in any case I need to jump in the car," added Vandoorne.