Kirchhofer set to leave single-seaters for GTs in 2017

Up until 2016, Kirchhofer enjoyed a successful junior single-seater career, which involved ADAC Formel Masters and German F3 titles as well as finishing third overall twice in GP3.

He then stepped up to GP2 for 2016 with Carlin, but finished only 17th in the standings despite finishing second in the Monaco sprint race.

Kirchhofer has told Motorsport-Magazin.com that he will not continue in GP2 for another year.

Instead, he plans to start a career in GT racing, most likely starting in the German-based ADAC GT Masters series, or possibly Blancpain GT.

"The ADAC GT Masters series would be an obvious pick to me as a German driver, and Blancpain is also interesting," he said.

Kirchhofer drove for Carlin in GP2 last year, which has recently pulled out of the series, and the German said the strength of the field meant the drivers had to rely on the strength of their cars.

"It's very difficult to prove your talent at this level," he added. "When everyone is able to drive well, success is automatically connected to who has the better car and who can afford it.

"The money we spent on GP2 could have been saved, but in retrospect you are always smarter. At the end of the day it was a difficult year, but I have learned a lot and I'm looking forward to my new job."

Formula E the ultimate goal

Kirchhofer's long-term goal is racing in Formula E, as he attempts to emulate Robin Frijns and Maro Engel, who have also entered the series from GTs.

"Some drivers have shown that it is possible to make it into Formula E if you are successful in GTs," said Kirchhofer.

"Formula E is a good series for young drivers to prove themselves. If a door opens, I'd be happy to take the opportunity."