Haas defend Magnussen in the wake of Renault cricitism

Following a scathing attack by Renault’s Cyril Abiteboul, Kevin Magnussen’s new Haas team boss had defended the driver.

Magnussen will race for Haas this season after just one year with Renault.

It was a disappointing season for the driver and Renault as he managed just two top-ten results as the RS16 lacked pace.

Abiteboul, though, feels some of the blame belongs with Magnussen.

“Keeping Magnussen may have seemed like a logical choice in terms of keeping onboard a standard reference,” the Renault F1 managing director told Auto Hebdo.

“But personally, I was disappointed by him. I was disappointed by his performance as well as by his attitude.

“He has undeniable talent but lacks discipline and commitment, and looks for excuses a bit too often.”

Haas have been quick to defend their new driver.

“Kevin is a respected race car driver, and I emphasise that,” team boss Guenther Steiner told Ekstra Bladet.

“We all look forward to working with him.”