Fans have donated almost £1m to keep Kamui Kobayashi in Formula 1.
The Japanese racer is without a drive for 2013, after Sauber confirmed Nico Hulkenberg and Esteban Gutierrez for next season.
The 26-year-old told Sky Sports News: "I hope. I'm talking with another team. If I don't talk then I'm retired, just like that.
"It's no surprise. Sauber announced another driver and so I talk to another team. This is normal.
"I'm working very hard to get sponsors. Hopefully time is not too late."
Drivers are increasingly reliant on funding from sponsors to secure a race seat.
Kobayashi finished 12th in the drivers' standings.
