Steiner: Continuity bringing out the best in Magnussen

Haas Formula 1 chief Günther Steiner believes continuity is the key to Kevin Magnussen's impressive form at the start of the 2018 Formula 1 season following back-to-back points finishes for the Danish driver in Bahrain and China.

Magnussen looked on course for a top-five finish at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix before a cross-threaded wheel nut forced him to retire, but bounced back with a charge to fifth in Bahrain before picking up another point for P10 in China last Sunday.

2018 marks the first time in Magnussen's racing career he has not changed teams over the off-season, with Steiner believing that this has given him the stability to perform as he is now.

"He likes the car and the car is good and that combination has given him confidence, he doesn’t have to overdo things. He believes in himself that he can do a good job with a good car," Steiner said.

“I think being with us for two years now has a lot to do with it. The first year, he figured out everybody. He knows who is who. He likes the atmosphere around the team.

"He hasn’t had this before and, now, coming into the second season is something new, and it’s helped pull the talent out of him."

Magnussen concurred with his team boss, saying that the combination of an improved car and the constancy at Haas over the winter has allowed him to prepare in a different way for this campaign.

“The main thing is that we have a good car, a better car this year," Magnussen said.

"I also think it makes a big difference that I’m with the same team for a second year, having that continuity.

"You have a totally different preparation and some experience to rely on."