McNish and Toyota team-mate Mika Salo were told last month that they would not be required for 2003.

Audi have already declared their interest in taking McNish back to sportscar racing, but the Scot is confident he can secure another drive in Formula One.

"Obviously I was disappointed about the decision and a little surprised especially that neither Mika nor I will be there next year," said McNish.

"However it was the natural end to my current three-year contract and I can say that [Toyota boss] Ove Andersson acted in a very professional manner throughout.

"But it is a pity I will not get the benefit of all the groundwork I have put in throughout the years with the car and the team.

"As for the future, we are in discussions, there are some options in F1 and some outside as well.

"I have been pleasantly surprised by the number of teams interested in me for 2003.

"Although you will need to wait some weeks before knowing what is happening I think it will be worth the wait. I am confident."

Audi, whose cars have won Le Mans for the last three years, admitted they have been in contact with the 1998 Le Mans 24 Hours winner about next season.

"He is one of our first choices for next year and he would fit into our team very well," sports director Wolfgang Ullrich told Motorsport News.

"He is a very special guy, a good ambassador and an excellent driver."

Bentley communications director Sarah Perris confirmed McNish was also one of several drivers on their list.

McNish, who made his debut in Australia in March after a decade of trying to break into Formula One, could also decide to race in the US Cart series.