Danish Formula One driver Kevin Magnussen will depart from his Haas race seat at the conclusion of the 2024 season. This announcement was made by the US-owned team on Thursday. Despite leaving his driving role, Magnussen could potentially transition to an unspecified position within the team.
Esteban Ocon is strongly rumored to take over Magnussen’s seat in 2025, coinciding with the Frenchman’s confirmed departure from the Renault-owned Alpine team. Joining him could be British rookie Oliver Bearman.
Haas officially confirmed Magnussen’s departure, stating that his contract will expire at the end of the current Formula 1 World Championship. The team expressed their gratitude for Magnussen’s contributions and stated that they look forward to working with him for the remainder of the 2024 season.
Haas team boss Ayao Komatsu praised Magnussen’s dedication, highlighting his consistent performance both on and off the track. He emphasized that Magnussen has driven in more races for Haas than any other driver, leading to numerous memorable moments, including a remarkable fifth-place finish at the 2022 Bahrain Grand Prix.
Magnussen, at 31 years old, is currently in his seventh season with Haas, having initially joined in 2017 and leaving at the end of 2020 before returning in 2022 to replace Russian Nikita Mazepin following the start of the war in Ukraine. Sunday’s Hungarian Grand Prix will mark his 135th start with the team.
Komatsu expressed his desire to continue collaborating with Magnussen in some capacity, highlighting his valuable experience and knowledge, which could contribute to the team’s ongoing growth and development.
Magnussen expressed pride in representing Haas and thanked team owner Gene Haas for bringing him back at a time when he believed his F1 career was over. He acknowledged enjoying many great moments with the team, creating memories he will always cherish. While looking forward to the next chapter of his racing career, Magnussen remains committed to giving his all for the rest of the 2024 season.
In the current season, Magnussen has accumulated five points from twelve races, compared to his teammate Nico Hulkenberg’s 22 points. Hulkenberg, who will be joining Sauber next season, recently secured impressive sixth-place finishes in the last two races.
