Renault road car prompts Magnussen speculation

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The launch this week in Denmark of a Clio road car labeled the special 'Kevin Magnussen edition' has prompted speculation that the Dane will be remaining with the French manufacturer for next season.

But a Renault official has played down the suggestion that, saying that the Clio signature series destined for the Danish market was planned some time ago.

"We know as little as you about what will happen with Renault and Kevin Magnussen," said Soren Hyltoft Thomsen, a PR official for Renault Denmark.

"We made a deal with Kevin Magnussen in the spring to make the car, but there is no hidden message in it."

Renault has yet to confirm the identity of the driver who will partner newly-signed Nico Hulkenberg on next year's lineup.

Despite impressing team boss Fred Vasseur in Mexico last weekend, Jolyon Palmer's chances appears to be slim.

And Magnussen himself, perhaps unwilling to wait for a decision by his current employer, has initiated talks with US outfit Haas.

Mercedes protege Esteban Ocon, who kick started his career in F1 with Manor at the Belgian Grand Prix, is also on Renault's shortlist but Toto Wolff is keen to keep the young hopeful within the Mercedes stable, thus making him a viable candidate for Hulkenberg's vacant seat at Force India.

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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.