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After Nikita Mazepin's contract got terminated by Haas under controversial circumstances, everyone has been wondering about the possible replacement for the Russian driver in the team. Some of the names like Pietro Fittipaldi, Oscar Piastri and Nico Hulkenberg have been doing rounds on social media, linking them to the US-based team. But the official announcement by Haas left everyone in shock.
In a big development from world of motorsport on Wednesday, Haas F1 Team announced the signing of Kevin Magnussen as the replacement of Nikita Mazepin. The decision came out as a major surprise to everyone as Magnussen was not being seen as contender by anyone. But considering the situation the team is in, they might have wanted to get someone on board who knows Haas in and out.
Magnussen to partner Mick Schumacher at Haas in F1 2022
Notably, Magnussen raced for Haas from 2017 to 2020 alongside Roman Grosjean. The 29-year-old registered a total of 96 points during his 4-year tenure at the team. And after just one year of absence, Haas has decided to get their former driver back in the grid in a stunning multi-year deal.
Kevin was a straightforward decision for us: Guenther Steiner
Reflecting on the signing, Team Principal Guenther Steiner said, "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 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," he further added.
I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car: Magnussen
Kevin Magnussen himself admitted that he was not expecting a call from Haas but he is indeed delighted with the opportunity to return to Formula 1 this year.
"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," he said.
Magnussen added, “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."
