Magnussen holding on to Renault hopes

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As he awaits news on his future from his employer, Kevin Magnussen reiterated his desire to remain with Renault in 2017.

The Dane tweeted earlier today that rumors of an imminent move to Indycar racing were wide of the mark, and that his loyalty and ambitions still remain with Renault in Formula 1.

"Seeing rumours around about me in IndyCar," Magnussen posted on Twitter.

"I'm a big fan of IndyCar but those are really just rumours. Nothing to it.

"I feel confident my future is in Formula 1 and there should be no doubt I intend to stay with Renault Sport for many years if I can.

"Unfortunately there is nothing yet to announce regarding my future, but hopefully there will be soon. I too am getting impatient!"

Renault extended its options date on its driver to October 14th, a deadline which has now expired but has not brought any clarity for the Dane.

In the interim, the French manufacturer did however confirm last Friday the hiring of Nico Hulkenberg on the basis of a multi-year deal, leaving just one seat available for next season.

Many believe that Renault is no longer considering Jolyon Palmer for next seaosn while Magnussen remains in the frame alongside Mercedes protégé and current Manor driver Esteban Ocon.

The 20-year-old hopeful, who also happens to be French, is reputed to be at the top of the shortlist of Renault's team principal Fred Vasseur.

But with an opening at Mercedes-powered Force India, Toto Wolff may be looking at filling the seat at Vijay Mallya's team with either Ocon or Pascal Weherlein.

Magnussen therefore, patiently waits his fate.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.