Formula One driver Gutierrez confirms Haas exit

Esteban Gutierrez confirmed on Friday he is to leave the American Haas team at the end of this season.

The Mexican announced on Facebook he was not staying with the team, hoping to clarify his position for his fans before Haas made an expected statement to confirm their recruitment of Kevin Magnussen, currently with Renault.

Renault have signed Nico Hulkenberg, of Force India, for next year and confirmed that Jolyon Palmer will be staying for a second season.

"I want to share with you that I will no longer be with Haas F1 Team for the next season," said Gutierrez via Facebook.

"I want to thank all the team and staff, especially Gene Haas, for this opportunity to work with them. I wish them all the best.

"There are two races left, which I intend to enjoy to the fullest, and as always, I’ll give my best. Special thanks to all my fans and supporters -- you will always have a place in my heart.

"I hope to shortly share my plans for the future."

Gutierrez made no comments about his likely next team, but paddock sources on Friday speculated that he could switch to the Manor team.

Source: AFP