Reuters
Formula One F1 – Portuguese Grand Prix – Algarve International Circuit, Portimao, Portugal – Haas’ Kevin Magnussen during the press conference FIA/Handout via REUTERS
Reuters
Formula One F1 – Portuguese Grand Prix – Algarve International Circuit, Portimao, Portugal – Haas’ Kevin Magnussen during the press conference FIA/Handout via REUTERS
Kevin Magnussen did not really reach his true potential in his time in Formula One. The Danish driver achieved one podium in his debut race but struggled throughout his time. He would show glimpses of his speed when he would take his uncompetitive Haas into the Top-10.
The American team decided to let go of the Danish driver at end of the 2020 season. But Magnussen mentioned that there was a team who had shown interest in him during his negotiations. But Kevin declined their offer as the team wanted to replace their star driver for him.
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I had the opportunity to stay: Kevin Magnussen
As reported by tv3sport.dk, Magnussen mentioned he had an opportunity to continue in F1 when Williams offered him the driver. The British team wanted him to get sponsors for the team.
“I had the opportunity to stay. I was in contact with Williams. However, it would have been a return to my days at McLaren and Renault–I had to find a lot of sponsors for Williams to offer a serious amount.” said Kevin.
Reuters
Formula One F1 – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – December 10, 2020, Haas’ Kevin Magnussen during the press conference FIA/Handout via REUTERS
But it was the decision to replace George Russell for him did not really make sense to him. “They saw me as a replacement for George Russell. I immediately came to the conclusion–what is this team? Getting rid of Russell and keeping Latifi would just be idiocy.
George is a mega-talent who shouldn’t be out of F1. If Williams really wanted something, they would have removed Latifi. Then they would have had Russell and Magnussen–a strong duo, in my opinion,” he smiled.
At the midpoint of last season, Williams were struggling to survive in the sport and needed finances. But by the time Dorrington Capital acquired the team, it was too late for Magnussen.
It would have been an interesting duo if Williams would have gone with Kevin Magnussen and George Russell. The Danish driver could have guided the young Brit as he has more experience than Russell.
But it did not transpire, and the Dane is now racing in IndyCar and loving life in the States. He is following the footsteps of his father who too moved to IndyCar after F1.
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