Kevin Magnussen has given team-mate Mick Schumacher his vote of support as the German fights for his Formula 1 future.
The son of seven-time world champion Michael has been in F1 for the last two seasons, but there is no guarantee he will get a third. His seat is one of the final two on the grid not secure for next season with Haas keen to assess their options before committing.
Guenther Steiner has made it clear that he will not be rushed into making a decision, but has also asserted that Schumacher will remain in the running to keep hold of his seat. A final decision is not expected until at least after the Mexican Grand Prix, but could take longer than that.
While admitting he has little say in the team's decision, Magnussen made it clear how he feels about the situation. "Mick has been really improving over the year," the Dane told reporters in Austin.
"He started off not really liking the car, lacking a bit of confidence, but he has really gained that. Lately he has been super hard to beat for me. I think the way he is driving right now he definitely deserves a place on the grid. But I haven't had any influence, it is totally out of my hands and I can only just wish him well."
The United States Grand Prix provides an excellent opportunity for Schumacher to prove his credentials. It is the team's home race, and will take place in the wake of the announcement of a new title sponsor for the first time since they cut ties with Uralkali earlier this year.
Dropping the Russian fertiliser firm left a financial hole which has now been filled by Dallas-based company MoneyGram. They will help make Haas more of a financial force within the sport, but also made it clear they would not be interfering with driver decisions.
"From our perspective we have full faith in Guenther," said marketing director Greg Hall. "This is not a decision for us. This is a racing decision, and we have full confidence in him, and we're excited about whatever decision they do make."
And the company's chairman Alex Holmes added: "We want to be helpful, we want to be involved. We want to have the right brand representation, to have the right partnership globally. Obviously, the drivers play a big role in that... but we'll take Guenther's lead on that. And whoever's driving for the team, we'll give them all the support in the world."
