McLaren reserve driver Kevin Magnussen will leave the team as he seeks to secure a drive for the 2016 season outside of the Woking outfit.
The Danish driver raced for the team in 2014 alongside Jenson Button and secured a podium on his debut, however with Fernando Alonso partnering Button this season and next, Magnussen had no other choice but to leave if he’s to find a full-time race seat in F1.
McLaren chairman Ron Dennis hailed Magnussen’s contribution to the team, but ultimately admitted there was no room for him.
“Kevin has always done a very impressive and professional job for McLaren in the five years since he joined our Young Driver Programme in 2010,” he said.
“In 2014 he raced very well alongside Jenson, who is a hugely experienced and very quick World Champion. Kevin’s Grand Prix debut in Melbourne last year was rewarded with a podium that day that he, and we, can be justifiably proud of.
“Kevin has continued to work hard for us in 2015, supporting Fernando and Jenson, although he was understandably frustrated not to be racing.
“He is extremely keen to return to racing next year, and, in keeping with our tradition with our young drivers, we will not stand in the way of his ability to fulfil his ambition and potential.
“He is a very talented racing driver, and he deserves to have a Formula 1 career, as Jenson has publicly said.
“Evidently, we have no space for him at McLaren-Honda as a race driver next year, but there is no shame in being edged out by two World Champions, Fernando and Jenson. We wish Kevin well, and will do all we can to help him successfully embark on the next chapter of his racing career.”
It’s expected that Stoffel Vandoorne will take up the role of reserve driver.
