Kevin Magnussen set for Haas, Jolyon Palmer to stay at Renault
Further pieces of the F1 driver market puzzle are set to fall into place in the coming days with announcements expected from Haas, Renault and Force India.
As predicted back in October, Kevin Magnussen is to finalize his move from Renault to Haas for what is expected to be a two-year deal. The Dane was under consideration for a seat with the US-owned team for 2016, but lost out to Romain Grosjean. The news means that Esteban Gutierrez will be without a drive.
Magnussen’s move has made Renault’s choice easier, and it is now official that Jolyon Palmer has been given the nod to stay on at the Enstone team, alongside Nico Hulkenberg. The Briton has shown improved form in recent races, and his presence will give the team some continuity.
“I’m over the moon to be racing with Renault Sport Formula One Team for a second season and I can’t wait to reward the team’s faith in me on track," said Palmer. "Having worked out of Enstone since 2015, I can fully appreciate the development of the infrastructure this year. This means I share the excitement of the team looking to 2017 and our new car. For me, it’s been a steep learning curve driving in Formula 1 and I know that I am performing better than ever, and that there’s still more to come. There is tremendous drive and enthusiasm in Enstone and Viry looking to next year and I am honoured to be part of this."
Esteban Ocon, who had earlier been a contender for Renault, remains the favorite to land the Force India seat vacated by Hulkenberg. Felipe Nasr and Marcus Ericsson have also pitched for the driver but both now look likely to remain with Sauber.
