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Kevin Magnussen says he will look around to see if a move to a top team might be on the cards.
Although unpopular among many of his rivals, the Dane has impressed at Haas this year and is outperforming his more highly-paid teammate Romain Grosjean.
"I'm happy to be here even if I don't know what will happen in the future," he told Marca newspaper in Monaco.
"But I feel comfortable with my team and that they appreciate what I do. I really like the environment we have here."
Magnussen's two-year Haas contract expires at the end of the year, and it is believed the American team has the option to renew it for 2019.
Magnussen said: "We are going to see if I have the opportunity to be in a leading team to fight for the championship, as any driver with ambition would accept that opportunity.
"But until that happens, we have a competitive car and I am really happy," he added.
That is despite the fact that many of his F1 rivals have complained about his on-track aggression. There has also been criticism in the press.
"I focus on the team and block all of that out," said Magnussen.
"If I want to put something on social media, I have people who take care of it so I don't need to look. It's all a distraction and it can be frustrating if you let it get into your head."
Grand Prix of Belgium
C. Sainz jr
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Replies (6)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Plenty of drivers would accept it, Im sure. But while I think Kevin is good, he isnt top team good. Yet at least.
ajpennypacker
Posts: 2,475
I still don't know what to make of Kevin. He was brilliant a couple of times with McLaren, but subpar with potential most of the time. Mediocre with Renault. A #2 driver with Haas last year and also quite reckless. This year he's been driving brilliantly but also recklessly. I don't know if he's capable of sustainable performance and controlling his aggression, but if he does, I could see him restoring his reputation. Although he doesn't really have any better options that Haas so I'm not sure where he'd go. McLaren and Renault are done with him. Williams is garbage. Force India wouldn't be a step up anymore. Red Bull sticks to their own program. Ferrari... maybe a #2 for Sebastian? Mercedes? No way in hell. They have a pretty long list ahead of Kevin that includes Ricciardo, Ocon, and Bottas.
mbmwe36
Posts: 533
The thing about Kevin is, like most Danes, he's not handling adversity and even more so uncertainty very well.
Both at McLaren and Renault he came out guns blazing, but once we reached the summer break and his future was still up in the air it showed in his performance.
That's why it was smart of Haas to sign him to a multi-year deal, and his performance has been much more consistent. Last year he was fairly unlucky, and HAAS made more than a few rookie mistakes.
I think he'll do very well in a top team, should he get that chance.
humbleridderen
Posts: 3
It will not take long before he is in a top team. But mayne one more year in Haas will be fine too.
websurfer
Posts: 52
Seconded.
mcbhargav
Posts: 1,332
Would a top team accept his move?