Magnussen predicts DRS will have "bigger effect" under 2017 rules

Several figures within and outside the sport have raised concerns that the extra emphasis on aerodynamics in the new regulations could have a negative impact on wheel-to-wheel racing.

But Haas driver Magnussen is more optimistic, having told Motorsport.com's sister publication Autosport: “The DRS should have a bigger effect than last year as there is more downforce and drag on the rear wing.

“When you open the DRS it should make a bigger difference to the car in front, so there are things that point to better racing.

“With more downforce, you would think it would be hard to stay close but we will have to wait and see.”

F1 cars will look dramatically different this year, with changes to the rules also expected to make the cars up to five seconds quicker.

Magnussen is looking forward to racing in the new formula, especially as drivers are expected to be able to push the cars.

“I’m quite excited because having faster cars is good for us,” he said. “We want to push and to go fast and be on the limit.

“With the last generation of cars, the grip was so low and the power compared to the grip was very high. You were always on the limit from the moment you leave the pitlane.

“So it will be good to drive a car that challenges you to find the limit instead of looking for a compromise - tyres, aero, balance and so on.

“I hope it’s going to be more challenging to find the limit.”

Drivers have been working on building strength in the gym over the winter to cope with the increased g-forces as a result of the faster cars.

“I have to assume the cars will be massively hard to drive,” said Magnussen.

“So the motivation to train hard is quite high because I feel like it might make a real difference.

“The training is not just two hours on a bike or on a treadmill, it’s really tough, focused training, which I enjoy.”