01/02/2016
NEWS STORY
Pastor Maldonado's admission suggests Kevin Magnussen will drive for Renault this season.
Whilst many are expecting the news to be officially confirmed on Wednesday, when Renault hosts a press conference in Paris, Pastor Maldonado - not for the first time - appears to have jumped the gun.
Taking to Twitter, the Venezuelan revealed to his 710,000 followers that he will not be on the grid this year.
"Today with the utmost humility I inform you that I will not be present at the starting grid for the 2016 F1 season," he wrote. "Thanks for all your messages of support, passion and concern for my future. I feel very honoured with the support of all of you and proud of my professional performance.
"I affirm my sense of gratitude to God, my family, my sponsors, my friends, my fans and all those who have helped realize this dream of being able to represent Venezuela to the pinnacle of motorsport," he added. "See you soon!"
With doubt as to the Venezuelan's 2016 seat resurfacing last week, mainly due to problems with his sponsor, state oil company PDVSA, speculation as to Magnussen replacing him intensified.
All the while, whilst active on social media, Renault/Lotus has avoided the subject.
The Venezuelan's comments also suggest he is not likely to drive for Manor.