Kevin Magnussen is back in Formula 1 after signing a multi-year deal with Haas to replace Nikita Mazepin for the 2022 season.
Magnussen, who was originally set to drive for Peugeot in the World Endurance Championship this year, left F1 at the end of 2020 but will make a surprise comeback to become Mick Schumacher‘s new teammate.
“I was obviously very surprised but equally very excited to receive the call from Haas F1 team,” said Magnussen.
“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 organisations. 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.”
Magnussen will drive in this week’s pre-season test in Bahrain on Friday morning and Saturday afternoon, with test driver Pietro Fittipaldi driving on Thursday.
Guenther Steiner on Magnussen’s return to F1
Team principal Guenther Steiner says he is delighted to welcome Magnussen back to the team for a fifth season at Haas.
“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,” said Steiner.
“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.
“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.”
