Vandoorne feels 2017 was "last chance" to get in F1

Vandoorne, 24, secured the 2015 GP2 in dominant fashion and was expected to move up to F1, but McLaren decided to retain Jenson Button, leaving the Belgian without a vacancy.

The team decided to keep Vandoorne racing in 2016, in Japan's Super Formula, before it announced Button would take a sabbatical next year, making way for the Belgian star.

Vandoorne admitted he felt time was running out for him to reach F1.

"I don't know what discussions were going in behind the scenes, but I remember a year ago when I was finishing GP2 that, of course, there were a lot of rumours around that I might get the drive already for 2016," Vandoorne told the official F1 website.

"Alas it didn't happen back then, but yes, I remember all the hype surrounding it. And to be honest I was a little disappointed at the beginning - it was a tough moment for me to understand that F1 would have to wait another year.

"But I kept my head cool and won the last two GP2 races that season and actually broke the record in that series. I knew it was best to give the answer on the track.

"Sure, time is always pressing in a driver's career, so I knew it had to be next year - as it was probably my last chance of getting to F1."

Vandoorne will partner Fernando Alonso at McLaren next year, when the Spaniard's contract will expire.

The team has insisted that Button's return to action in 2018 is a real possibility, which means either Alonso and Vandoorne will have to leave to be replaced by the Briton.

Vandoorne, however, says the situation does not make him uncomfortable, as he has a long-term contract with the team.

"No, I don't see that situation as extra pressure. I have a long-term deal with McLaren. Hopefully we soon will be able to get back to the competitive level where McLaren used to be.

"In terms of next year, yes, it is a special structure - but I think it is one of the best. Myself and Fernando are going to race - and then it is good to keep Jenson as well.

"He is the most experienced driver in F1 now and he will be involved with the team, be it in the simulator or coming to a few races."