Daniil Kvyat has admitted that he feels "stronger" towards the end of what he says is the most challenging season of his career.
The Russian began the year at Red Bull and was on the podium in China, but the team shunted him to their junior outfit Toro Rosso in order to promote Max Verstappen.
Kvyat then struggled for performance and looked set to be axed altogether for 2017, but Red Bull are keeping him at the junior team for another year.
Speaking to Spanish broadcaster Movistar, 22-year-old acknowledged that 2016 has seemed long.
"It seems like it's been 10 seasons in one. It's been so long," Kvyat said.
"But I'm stronger. I survived."
He also admitted that news of his new deal for 2017 was a great weight off his shoulders.
"After the confirmation for 2017 I'm much calmer," said Kvyat. "Now I focus on what really matters."
The season continues in Brazil in two weeks' time.
