Alexander Rossi - not to be confused with Valentino Rossi

The American enjoyed a profitable 2011 in which he came in third in the World Series by Renault and had a run out for Team Lotus (now Caterham) in the Abu Dhabi young driver's test in November.

While the 20-year-old is yet to confirm his plans for 2012, he believes that his hard work over the years is starting to pay off.

"Since 10 years old when I was given my first opportunity to race in karts, my passion, drive and determination has always been the same: to make and succeed in F1. I've made the most of every opportunity that I've been fortunate to have and I'm continually reminded of the large number of people that include investors and sponsors that believe in me, who have also sacrificed so much for me to be where I am today," Rossi is quoted as saying by Crash.net

"2011 was great year of hard work and many new successes and we are now many steps closer to F1.

"This past year could not have been possible without the support of Team Lotus and belief from Tony Fernandes along with FIA Institute and my race winning WSR team, Fortec Motorsports.

"I am very excited about the relationships we have formed and my future in motorsports," he concluded.