185 Races - No Laps Led: Magnussen's Unmatched Record

Kevin Magnussen reflects on his F1 journey, leaving behind an unparalleled record and looking ahead to new challenges in motorsport.

Kevin Magnussen has already managed two comebacks in F1, but barring a major surprise, a third seems unlikely. The former McLaren F1, Renault, and Haas F1 driver is set to transition to BMW in the World Endurance Championship and IMSA, aiming for future victories at Daytona, Sebring, or Le Mans.

In 2026, the Dane might have a chance to return to F1 with the arrival of an 11th team, Cadillac… but he acknowledges that other drivers, like Colton Herta, could be prioritized.

“With Cadillac’s upcoming entry into F1, a return isn’t entirely unimaginable, but for now, I’ve signed a contract with BMW to race in the World Endurance Championship and IMSA,” he admits.

“I think this might be the end. It’s the third time I’m experiencing this here in Abu Dhabi. In 2014, it was depressing. In 2020, I was optimistic about what was coming next. Today, I don’t really feel sadness.”

“I don’t know if I’ll return to F1, but I will always remain connected to motorsport. I’m grateful for everything this discipline has given me.”

Perhaps unfairly, Kevin Magnussen carries a reputation as an overly aggressive driver. In 2018, he notably claimed he was ready to “die in the car.”

Does he regret those words today?

“I simply wanted to express my total commitment. I should have realized it would be taken out of context. I don’t want to die in the car, but I’m ready to give everything for success.”

“It’s not about fear. It’s a feeling of responsibility. That probably comes from being a parent now.”

Kevin Magnussen scored his first podium at his debut Grand Prix with McLaren F1 in Australia in 2014… But since then, apart from a pole position in Brazil, very little. In 185 Grands Prix, Jan’s son has not led a single lap (a historic record).

Does Kevin Magnussen truly feel a sense of accomplishment as he leaves the sport?

“I feel very fortunate. I didn’t achieve my goal of becoming world champion, but I’ve had an incredible career. F1 isn’t a fair sport, but it has given me so much.”

“F1 hasn’t always been what I imagined as a child. I dreamed of a magical world. But it’s been incredibly rewarding, even on days when it felt more like a job.”

“Ultimately, after ten years, it became a job. There are days when you don’t feel like it… you just have to get through it, and it’s boring… I never imagined it would feel like that.”

“I feel very fortunate. When I look back at this journey, it feels like I’ve won the lottery, even though I haven’t yet reached my goals. I dreamed of being a Formula 1 world champion. I didn’t achieve it. I’m open about that, and it doesn’t bother me. I’ve accepted it—I focus on what I’ve accomplished, rather than what I haven’t.”

“In that sense, it’s almost unfair, but on the other hand… I’ve enjoyed it so much that I almost feel like I don’t deserve it. I just drove a car and did what I had to do for myself.”