(L to R): Nico Hulkenberg (GER) Haas F1 Team and Kevin Magnussen (DEN) Haas F1 Team. 02/21/2024. Formula 1 testing, Sakhir, Bahrain, Day One.
Kevin Magnussen believes that Haas has benefited from having experienced drivers in their Formula 1 team, amid rumors linking Oliver Bearman to the team in 2025.
Bearman made his unexpected F1 debut during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, when he replaced the ill Carlos Sainz at Ferrari, who had undergone an appendix operation.
Despite only having one hour of practice on a demanding track, the British driver qualified in 11th place and finished seventh, overtaking Lewis Hamilton.
Bearman took part in two practice sessions with Haas last season and is expected to have six more this year, fueling speculation that he is being prepared for a promotion to F1.
However, Magnussen warned that Haas values the advantage of having experienced drivers after the team’s strong start to the current season.
When asked if he would welcome Bearman as a teammate, Magnussen stated: “I believe that entering a race weekend with a prominent team like Ferrari comes with a significant amount of pressure.
“At the same time, when you are thrown into the deep end like that, it can also be a situation where you feel less pressure because the task at hand is so immense that the optimal performance is somewhat unknown.
“So, I suppose it must have been an incredible opportunity for him to race on such a notable track with Ferrari. Having his first race with Ferrari must be an extraordinary feeling.
“Do I want him as a teammate? Well, considering his young age and his position in his career and life, I can relate to where he is.”
“So, honestly, I wish him the best. Nico is an extremely competent teammate and I believe we have a great dynamic within the team. We work very well together.
“And I think, as a team, the journey we are on benefits from having experienced drivers, but ultimately, it is beyond my control.
“I believe we should make the most of what we currently have with both drivers and the car, which I believe is performing adequately.”
Hulkenberg warned Bearman that his achievements in Formula 1 will soon be forgotten unless he follows them with a successful second season in Formula 2.
The Prema driver had secured pole position in Jeddah before his promotion to Formula 1, but he has only managed to gather two points in the two races he has participated in so far.
When asked about the possibility of competing with Magnussen for a spot alongside Bearman, Hulkenberg responded: “It is too early to make that statement at this time.”
“I believe he has a significant challenge ahead of him in F2, because if he does not perform well there, this race in Jeddah will be forgotten within days.”
“We all know how this industry works. Therefore, he faces a considerable amount of pressure to deliver in F2 right now.”
© 2024
