As Kevin Magnussen prepares to exit Haas and Formula 1, the Danish driver reflects on the bonds and battles that have defined his career. After nearly a decade intertwined with the plucky American outfit, Magnussen leaves behind a team he considers “family” and an F1 legacy built on resilience and determination.
With Haas signing Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon for 2025, Magnussen’s departure marks the end of an era for both the driver and the team. While his next chapter lies in the world of sports car racing with BMW’s Hypercar program, Magnussen’s heart remains tethered to the team that gave him a platform to showcase his fighting spirit.
A Career Intertwined with Haas
Magnussen’s Formula 1 journey is inseparable from Haas. Of his nine full seasons in F1, seven were spent with the American squad. From his initial stint with the team to his unexpected return in 2022, Magnussen’s career has been a testament to perseverance and loyalty.
“I feel very much part of the team. It’s almost a third of my life, which is crazy. So, of course, it feels like family,” Magnussen shared.
Despite moving on, the Dane remains emotionally connected to Haas, a sentiment reinforced by his amicable departure. “We’re certainly not ending this on bad terms, that’s for sure,” he added.
A Team on the Rise
Magnussen exits Haas at a time of resurgence for the team. Their seventh-place finish in the Constructors’ standings in 2024, with 58 points, marks their best performance since 2018. The team’s new partnership with Toyota and the signing of a proven race winner in Esteban Ocon alongside rising star Oliver Bearman signal a bright future for the squad.
While Magnussen remains humble about his role in Haas’s upward trajectory, he recognizes the collective effort behind their progress.
“It’s hard to take credit for any of it, but it’s nice that we seem to be going upwards. If the team does well next year, I’ve been a part of that,” he noted. “There are some very talented people in this team who deserve better opportunities. I think this team is going in a direction where they can get those opportunities.”
The Highs and Lows of Haas
Haas and Magnussen have endured their share of struggles in F1’s fiercely competitive environment. Known for punching above their weight, the team has experienced moments of brilliance tempered by inconsistency. Magnussen’s remarkable pole position in Brazil 2022 and his dogged performances are highlights in a career that mirrored Haas’s own highs and lows.
“We’ve always had great highs, but too many lows, too much up and down,” Magnussen admitted. “Those highs don’t come without great talent in this team.”
Looking Ahead
Though Magnussen will trade F1 for endurance racing, his legacy at Haas is secure. His grit and determination have left an indelible mark on a team that embodies the underdog spirit. As Haas continues its climb, Magnussen’s contributions will remain a cornerstone of their journey.
For Magnussen, it’s not a goodbye but rather a new beginning—one where his family at Haas will always have a special place.
