Gutierrez plays down Steiner altercation

Nov.15 - Esteban Gutierrez has denied his relationship with Haas is breaking down.

After the parties confirmed the Mexican is being replaced by Kevin Magnussen next year, Gutierrez was spotted in a heated garage exchange with boss Gunther Steiner during the Brazilian grand prix.

Footage showed a furious Gutierrez being grabbed by the arm by Steiner after the driver threw his gloves.

Gutierrez is quoted by Spain's Marca: "I was very angry about the situation but not with anyone. It was just the wrong time and we laughed about it afterwards.

"It seemed that something serious had happened, but it was nothing like that," he added.

Gutierrez had retired from the race with a technical problem, just days after saying his exit from Haas was "not fair" given the troubles he has had in 2016.

It is believed switching to Sauber or Manor, or returning to be third driver at Ferrari, are his options for 2017.

"I was angry with the situation because it has been the case all year, it is not a nice place to be in but I will never give up," Gutierrez said.

His last race for Haas will be next weekend in Abu Dhabi.

"I will do the best job possible," said the 25-year-old. "I am a professional and I want the best for the team as well.

"I still have a lot ahead of me in my career, so I want to leave the team in a good position."

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