Kevin Magnussen’s decade-long Formula 1 journey has come to an end—but for the Danish driver, this is not a step down. After Haas opted for a complete roster overhaul for 2025, Magnussen has transitioned into sports car racing, a discipline he’s long admired and where he’s finally back in a position to chase victories.
A frustrating F1 career comes to a close
Magnussen’s F1 career, spanning from 2014 to 2024 with stints at McLaren, Renault, and Haas, was defined by grit but lacked glory. Outside of a podium on his debut in 2014, Magnussen spent most of his time racing in cars that had no realistic chance of winning.
“For 10 years, I knew I didn’t have a chance to win,” Magnussen reflected. “As a racer, that gets old. I grew up wanting to become the best, but I’m ready to focus on a different chapter now.”
A fresh start with BMW M
Magnussen’s new chapter begins with the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona, where he joins BMW M Team RLL’s Hybrid V8 lineup. His 2025 calendar includes three IMSA endurance events and a full season in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) as a factory driver for BMW.
“This isn’t a step down,” Magnussen declared. “Sports car racing is more pure. People here love what they do, and there’s a genuine passion. It’s a completely different atmosphere from Formula 1, and I’m excited to be a part of it.”
The move brings Magnussen closer to his roots. Growing up, he idolized his father, Jan Magnussen, a four-time sports car champion. Together, they raced as co-drivers in the 2021 24 Hours of Le Mans, a memory Kevin cherishes.
Contentment in a simpler life
At 32, with two young daughters, Magnussen is embracing the slower pace of sports car racing. His WEC calendar, with most races in Europe, allows him to live comfortably in Denmark and spend more time with his family.
“My daughters got to see me in Formula 1, and now they’ll experience the relaxed vibe of sports car racing. It’s less cold, less cutthroat than F1. Here, everyone’s smiling and enjoying the sport,” he said.
No plans to return to F1 or IndyCar
Magnussen has no regrets about leaving F1 behind and no aspirations to return. “I’ve had my time in Formula 1, and I’m done chasing that dream,” he said. He also dismissed the idea of pursuing a career in IndyCar, calling it “the series that got away.”
For Magnussen, the focus is now firmly on sports car racing, a discipline that feels like home. “I grew up watching my dad race in sports cars, and I always knew I wanted to be a part of this world. Formula 1 is the pinnacle for many, but I have a special passion for sports car racing.”
The Rolex 24: A new beginning
The Rolex 24 at Daytona, North America’s most prestigious endurance race, marks the start of Magnussen’s new journey. With a strong team and his competitive spirit reignited, Magnussen is finally racing to win again.
“Being in cars capable of winning is what every driver dreams of,” Magnussen said. “Now, I’m back where I can compete for victories. I’m ready for this next chapter.”
