Kevin Magnussen believes his return to Formula 1 with the Renault Sport Formula 1 team saved his career in the sport, with the Dane believing that he would not have been able to return if he had missed a second consecutive season.
The twenty-three-year-old was released from his role of reserve driver by the McLaren team during the 2015 season after racing for them in 2014, but until Pastor Maldonado was relieved of his driving duties with Renault earlier in the week, it looked as though Magnussen’s F1 career was all but over.
But with Maldonado’s departure, 2013 Formula Renault 3.5 Series champion Magnussen has received a second chance at building an F1 career, and will partner 2014 GP2 Series champion Jolyon Palmer in an all-new line-up.
“Two years out would have been the end,” said Magnussen to Autosport. “If you’re world champion, you might be able to come back.
“But in my position, being out for two years would have been the end of my F1 career. This was make or break. Luckily, I made it.
“This is a massive opportunity because not many drivers get a second chance. I’ve been given a second chance and a very good chance with a top team.
“I can’t tell you how happy I am. I’m looking forward to getting into the car.”
