Vergne confirms Toro Rosso exit

Jean-Eric Vergne will not be a Scuderia Toro Rosso driver in 2015.

That may sound like old news but, following Sebastian Vettel's decision to quit Red Bull for Ferrari next season, the Frenchman remained in the frame to reclaim a seat at Faenza, despite appearing to have been deposed by youth.

Max Verstappen's much-hyped arrival at STR seemed to spell the end for Vergne but, with Vettel being replaced by STR's Daniil Kvyat in the days that followed, the Frenchman was listed along with a handful of Red Bull Juniors as a possible contender to partner the Dutchman.

However, just minutes after the post-season test at Yas Marina came to an end, Vergne tweeted confirmation that he would definitely be looking for alternative employment next year.

Despite a good season & 22 pts, I'll not drive anymore for Toro Rosso in 2015. Thanks for those years. Let's go for another big challenge.-- Jean-Eric Vergne (@JeanEricVergne) November 26, 2014

While the F1 exit might beckon, along with a possible future in sportscar racing, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix paddock whispered that he might be in line to replace Sauber-bound Felipe Nasr as the third man at Williams, backing up Felipe Massa and Valtteri Bottas in one of the most improved teams of 2014.

Vergne's announcement will open the door a little wider for the likes of Carlos Sainz Jr and Alex Lynn, Renault World Series and GP3 champions respectively, both of whom enjoyed runs in the Abu Dhabi te3st this week.