Kevin Magnussen and McLaren part ways

This Friday, Kevin Magnussen, third pilot McLaren, had confirmed his departure from the British team by posting a tweet on his Twitter account: “I want to thank my friends at McLaren. There are great people in this stable. »

A confirmation followed by a press release from the Woking team, where Ron Dennis, the boss of the team, spoke. “Kevin has always done an impressive and very professional job for McLaren since joining our young driver program in 2010.

Kevin continued to work hard for us in 2015, supporting Fernando and Jenson, but was understandably frustrated at not racing. He is extremely keen to return to competition next year, and, in accordance with our tradition with our young drivers, we will not slow him down in his ambition. »

Jenson Button's recent contract extension had in fact closed the opportunity for the 23-year-old Dane, just as for Stoffel Vandoorne, just crowned GP2 Series champion, and who was tipped to take Button's place.

" Obviously, we have no place for him at McLaren-Honda as a starter next year, but there is no shame in being beaten by two world champions, Fernando and Jenson. We will do everything we can to help him successfully launch into the next chapter of his career. »

A few options still remain available for 2016, including an unfilled seat from Lotus F1 Team, which should be bought by Renault. Magnussen comes from the Losange sector, after being crowned in Formula Renault 3.5 in 2013 with DAMS.