Kevin Magnussen admits to approaches from other F1 teams

Is Magnussen's check big enough for another team?

Kevin Magnussen admits he has had offers from other teams on the grid about a drive for 2016, with the McLaren junior driver's future still uncertain.

Magnussen was dropped at the end of last year despite an impressive rookie campaign for McLaren, with the team opting to retain the services of Jenson Button alongside new signing Fernando Alonso. The experience of both former world champions has been key this year with new power supplier Honda struggling to be competitive.

While Alonso is locked into a three-year deal, Button is waiting to see whether McLaren takes up the 2016 option on his contract. As well as Magnussen, McLaren has GP2 champion Stoffel Vandoorne waiting in the wings and could theoretically promote either in Button's place.

Though his preference remains a seat at McLaren, Magnussen admits there have been offers from other teams.

"Yes we can say other [F1] teams have reached out, it's no secret," Magnussen told F1i.. "So I do think I still have a future. You can always talk to people. It is quite sensitive … Not many, but some interesting ones. There aren't many Formula One teams available actually – some interesting ones."

Aside from deputizing for the injured Alonso at the Australian Grand Prix, Magnussen has been limited to a sideline role at McLaren, with no racing in other categories. Magnussen is confident McLaren will help his career continue in a positive direction even if he does not end up with the senior drive there in 2016.

"I wouldn't say [being approached] surprised me. I obviously hope that I can continue my career with McLaren but that might not be possible and if it isn't possible then I need to continue racing. I'm a racing driver and I need to race, that's what I do. McLaren will understand and help me continue my career if there isn't a space at McLaren. So I feel quite positive about my future.

"You keep doors open and just stay connected. I'm with McLaren, I'm contracted to McLaren. They might wish to continue, they might not, but before they take a decision I can't really do anything. So I'm patiently waiting for them." espn.co.uk