Kamui Kobayashi is not yet booking his flight back to his father's sushi restaurant.
The Japanese rookie, who impressed during Toyota's last two grands prix, has said he will need to return to Japan if he doesn't stay in F1 in 2010 because he has "no budget" for GP2.
"Obviously, my place at Toyota is lost," the 23-year-old is quoted as saying by the French press.
"I was close to signing a contract for 2010, but there are four new teams and still options," Kobayashi added. "If I could choose a team I would choose Lotus."
He also revealed that, in the wake of Toyota's announcement, the carmaker has offered to assist both him and Kazuki Nakajima find alternate employment for 2010.
Argentine signs conditional USF1 race deal
Williams sells team share to Toto Wolff
De la Rosa, Villeneuve, Summerton linked to USF1
WRC options emerge for Raikkonen
Sauber waits while FIA considers Toyota penalty
Still no deal for 2010 British GP - Ecclestone
Neel Jani to test Force India at Jerez
Persistent Schu/Merc rumours played down again
Mercedes GP in no hurry to replace Button
Button switched for less money and 'new challenge'
