Esteban Gutierrez has been on the prowl for sponsorship since his final outing with Dale Coyne Racing at Pocono, and it sounds like the native of Monterrey, Mexico, is close to making a return.

The ex-Formula 1 driver enjoyed what he found in IndyCar as a last-minute replacement for the injured Sebastien Bourdais, and if the rumors are true, the 26-year-old could become part of the Ed Carpenter Racing team in 2018 as teammate to full-time driver Spencer Pigot.

“I’m working on coming back, and things are looking positive,” Gutierrez told RACER while declining to name a specific team. “I have been contacting many people, and I think it’s important to settle down and learn about the opportunities that have come up – good opportunities. I’m excited to work on what I have in front, and keep working on making a reality of things without giving any expectations.”

As Gutierrez found on his IndyCar debut at Detroit, the physical nature of an Indy car, which offers significant downforce and grip without the luxury of power steering, requires a level of strength that surpasses anything he experienced in F1. If he’s going to strap into Carpenter’s No. 20 Chevy or any other Indy car, maintaining muscle mass and cardio endurance will be vital.

“I have been training the whole time to be ready and I’m very motivated to drive,” he added. “And I want to let my fans know that I’m pushing forward and working on good things for my future.”