Kevin Magnussen delivered a standout performance at the Mexico City Grand Prix, securing seventh place for Haas and leaving team principal Ayao Komatsu in awe. Labeling the drive as Magnussen’s best yet, Komatsu praised his relentless pace and tire management, which allowed him to fend off Oscar Piastri and finish just behind Max Verstappen.
“From FP1, he was strong,” Komatsu told SiriusXM, noting the Danish driver’s solid pace from the start of the weekend. “When it counted, his Q3 lap was amazing, and his race performance was the best I’ve seen from him. In that second stint, he was even quicker than Max at times! Kevin took three tenths out of Max in Sector 1, but we kept him focused on beating Piastri, knowing he had something in reserve.” Magnussen’s tenacious defense against Piastri was a race highlight as he held the gap just enough to stay ahead.
The remarkable finish extends Haas’s five-race points streak, underscoring a turning point for the team. “I’m very proud,” Magnussen said, reflecting on the achievement. “This was a weekend where we felt competitive, and to capitalize on that, especially after the missed points in Austin, means a lot.”
This result marks a potential new chapter for Haas, with Komatsu noting Magnussen’s pace and consistency could signal greater things ahead for the team. “It’s been a turnaround, and I think there’s a bright future ahead for Haas.”
