Magnussen 'surprised and disappointed' by Renault comments

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Former Renault driver Kevin Magnussen refused to fan the flames of criticism following the negative comments made by his ex-employer.

Renault F1 managing director Cyril Abiteboul took aim at Magnussen last week, saying that he had been disappointed by the Dane's performance and general lack of discipline and commitment in 2016.

Magnusson refused to return the compliment however, preferring to remain pretty much mum on the subject.

"I will not comment on Cyril's opinions at all," Magnussen said yesterday during a visit to Haas headquarters.

Renault's Abiteboul takes aim at Magnussen

But pressed by Danish newspaper BT to respond to the allegations, the 24-year-old refused to be drawn into a debate.

"I don't think it will do any good to talk about it. But it's clear that I am surprised. And disappointed," he added.

For Magnussen, the comments follow an unfortunate pattern, as his departure from McLaren at the end of 2014 was followed by similar comments by Ron Dennis.

"Yes, I can see that. But what should I do?" Magnussen responded.

Asked if his former teams might both be guilty of pointing fingers rather than acknowledging their own shortcomings, he concluded: "It could be something like that."

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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.