Kevin Magnussen returns to the Haas F1 team
Former Haas F1 racer Kevin Magnussen has been re-signed by the Haas F1 Team in a surprise comeback just days before the start of the 2022 F1 World Championship. The Danish racecar driver had decided to leave Formula One when his contract was not renewed after the 2020 season with Haas F1. Since then the driver has been taking part in the Indy Car Series along with some more motor car racing championships as well. The driver has returned to the team after the surprise exit of Russian driver Nikita Mazepin whose contract was terminated by the Haas F1 team amidst the current Russia and Ukraine conflict situation.
“I’m delighted to welcome Kevin Magnussen back to Haas F1 Team. When looking for a driver who could bring value to the team, not to mention a wealth of Formula 1 experience, Kevin was a straightforward decision for us. Kevin’s immediate availability means we can tap into him as a resource for pre-season testing alongside both Mick Schumacher and Pietro Fittipaldi. Pietro’s going to be first in this week with half a day’s running at the test on Thursday – that’s a great opportunity for him, with Mick and Kevin doing the rest ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.”
Team Principal Guenther Steiner commented
“Kevin was a key component in our previous successes – not least when we both scored our best finishes in Formula 1 back in 2018. He continued to show last year that he’s an elite race car driver adding wins and podiums to his resume. As a veteran presence in both the garage and the engineering room, he’ll provide a solid benchmark for us with the on-going development of the VF-22. We’re all looking forward to welcoming Kevin back this week in Bahrain.”
“I was obviously very surprised but equally very excited to receive the call from Haas F1 Team. I was looking in a different direction regarding my commitments for 2022 but the opportunity to return to compete in Formula 1, and with a team I know extremely well, was simply too appealing. I really have to say thank you to both Peugeot and Chip Ganassi Racing for releasing me promptly – both are great organizations.”
Kevin Magnussen expressing his view on the surprising signing
“Naturally, I also want to thank Gene Haas and Guenther Steiner for the chance to resume my Formula 1 career – I know just how competitive they both are and how keen they are to return to competing week in and week out. We’ve enjoyed a solid relationship and our positive association remained even when I left at the end of 2020. I’ve been briefed as much as possible on the development of the VF-22 and the potential in the package. There’s work to do but I’m excited to be a part of it. I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car in Bahrain.”
It will be interesting to see as to how Kevin would be able to cope with the pressure of Formula One after being away from it for some time now. It will be his fifth season with the Haas F1 team this season.
