Kevin Magnussen is set to bid farewell to Haas after 2024! The team announced this news on Thursday morning. The 34-year-old driver has raced seven seasons with the American team, but will soon have to make way. This means that Haas will start the upcoming season with a completely new line-up. Ferrari talent Oliver Bearman has already secured a contract, while Esteban Ocon is in pole position for the second seat.
Magnussen joined the Haas team in 2017 after two short stints with McLaren and Renault. After seven seasons (spread over eight years), he is the longest-serving driver in the team’s short history. Of the 175 Grand Prix that Magnussen has raced, a whopping 135 were with Haas. 2018 was the most successful year for the Dane, who finished ninth in the drivers’ championship and scored points in more than half of the races.
Haas F1 Team Aims for Successful Season Closure
“We hope to end the season successfully,” Haas F1 Team states on social media. Team boss Ayao Komatsu also wishes to conclude the collaboration on a high note. “I want to thank Kevin (Magnussen) for everything he has meant for this team,” the Japanese team leader expresses. “He has been one of the founders of Haas and everything the team stands for today. We still have plenty of races ahead, but afterwards, I hope to continue working with him.”
Magnussen Grateful for Trust from Haas
Magnussen is primarily grateful for the trust he received from Haas, especially during the 2022 season when he was allowed to make a comeback with the Americans at the last minute. “I am proud to have been able to drive for such a fantastic team,” he responds. “I will never forget the memories I have made here. I am focused on the rest of the season, although I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Future of Magnussen in Formula 1
It is expected that Magnussen will not be offered a new contract within Formula 1. Haas is likely to replace him with Esteban Ocon. An official announcement is still pending, but insiders claim the contract has already been signed. The Frenchman will not continue with Alpine after this season.