Magnussen won’t rule out Manor drive

Kevin Magnussen says it would be foolish for him to rule himself out of the running for the vacant seat at Manor.

Will Stevens has been named as one of Manor Marussia’s race drivers as the team works to be ready for the Australian Grand Prix following the approval of a CVA which allows it to exit administration. With one seat still available and McLaren one of Manor’s major creditors, Magnussen has been linked with the vacancy as he has yet to announce any race plans for the coming season.

While insisting he has not had any contact with Manor - which was listed on the FIA entry list last week - Magnussen says it is an opportunity he should consider if it arises.

“I think it would be wrong to say no completely, but it’s not what I’m looking at,” Magnussen said. “We haven’t even talked to them, so it’s not like we’re jumping at it but we’re thinking about everything. It’s difficult to know what the best thing is for getting back to Formula One.

“With the options we have, which one is the best one to be the most prepared and the most seen as being ready? There are many things that you have to take in to account I think, so it’s a difficult choice.”