Gutierrez says Formula E move a "radical decision"

The Mexican was left without a race seat in 2017 after being replaced by Kevin Magnussen at the Haas F1 team, and appeared close to a deal to join Manor before the British squad went into administration.

Having run out of options to stay in F1 as a race driver, on Monday Gutierrez announced he would be racing in Formula E this year.

Gutierrez will take part in the Mexico City ePrix on April 1, and further outings are also on the cards ahead of a possible full-time campaign in season four.

"It's a radical decision," Gutierrez told Motorsport.com. "There are great drivers. It's a very competitive series that gives the drivers very similar car. That's good, because it allows the driver to make the difference.

"It's a great experience, it's fun races. To me it's a very important step in my career. It's a radical decision and a big bet for my future.

"I see this decision as a very positive step. Personally I'm very happy about having the chance to be a part of Formula E.

"I have no doubt that we will achieve many things together. It has a great potential to grow," he added.

The 25-year-old insisted that he was not closing the door on Formula 1, and says his team is still working on a plan to say involved in the sport.

"At the moment I'm committed to Formula E. There are possibilities in Formula 1 to complement Formula E," he said. "I'm open to doing anything that's good for my career. There are a few options we are working on."

Gutierrez has yet to reveal exactly which team he will race with in Mexico, where numerous vacancies are likely to be available due to the clash with the WEC Prologue, but said he wanted to be in a position to fight at the front.

"It's not confirmed yet that I will race with Dragon, it's just one of the possibilities," he said.

"We are evaluating it and there are another five options. We'll decide where we are going in the new few weeks. We want to be fighting for the top positions."

Interview by Luis Ramirez