Kevin Magnussen remains in the running to keep his works Renault seat beyond 2016 according to reports in his homeland.
Denmark's BT newspaper has said that Magnussen's backer, 'Jack and Jones', owned by billionaire Anders Holch Povlsen is still committed to sponsoring the former McLaren driver.
Magnussen's sponsor agent, Thomas Badura, refused to comment Povlsen's involvement, but said there is "nothing to suggest" that Magnussen's commercial arrangements would change.
"Both current and potential sponsors are aware that 2016 is the first step," he said.
Despite that, Renault team boss Frederic Vasseur insists that the 2017 lineup is not yet decided.
"I have the advantage that 70 per cent of the drivers on the grid have driven for my previous team (ART) and I talk to them every single day," he said. "But I also speak to Jo (Palmer) and Kev (Magnussen) every single day as well."
"The difference is that they should focus on their jobs, as we are far from the time when we take our decision," he added. "There definitely will not be a decision before September. Definitely."
Despite the team now being financially secure and backed by Renault, Vasseur admitted that sponsorship may also play a role in which drivers they choose.
"We are a company," Vasseur said. "Right now it's all about performance, but at some point we also speak about sponsors. It may prove important."
Local time
Local time
Bahrain International Circuit - Winter testing
Replies (0)
Login to reply