Hulkenberg and Magnussen end their Haas F1 journey on high notes, reflecting on their achievements and memorable moments with the team.
Nico Hulkenberg finished the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in the points, securing 8th place. Four more points for Haas F1, but it wasn’t enough to surpass Alpine F1 for 6th in the Constructors’ Championship, especially with Pierre Gasly also finishing in the points, taking 7th place.
The German thus concludes his stint with Haas F1 before moving on to Sauber.
“We consistently worked hard, scoring points throughout the season, from start to finish, showing flair – we did a good job considering where we were last year. That’s what I’m most happy and proud of. It was truly enjoyable to be part of the process and the team. I had a lot of fun these past two years and leave happy and smiling – a big thanks to this team. This was probably the most enjoyable period of my Formula 1 career.”
Kevin Magnussen, meanwhile, was rewarded by his team with the opportunity to set the fastest lap after being taken out of contention for points due to an error – a strike, no less – by Valtteri Bottas.
“The first lap went well, from 14th to 7th, so that was a good start. I had a slow pit stop that ruined my race, and after the second stop, Bottas hit me, so it was definitely over. It’s not the way I wanted to end the season, but we gave it a shot. I tried something special on that first lap and went for it – gaining seven positions.”
The fastest lap as a parting gift?
“It’s easy when you’re the only one on fresh tires. They wanted me to feel an F1 car one last time with fresh tires and low fuel because it’s phenomenal in those conditions. Since we were out of the race, they wanted to give me that pleasure, and I appreciated it.”
The Dane will likely not return to Formula 1.
“In the end, I look at my career more broadly and think I wanted to win and be a champion, and I didn’t achieve that. But on the other hand, I was a little boy dreaming of Formula 1 25 years ago, and I managed to stay in this sport for ten years – and that’s been a real privilege.”
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Hulkenberg Scores 4, Magnussen Secures Fastest Lap for Haas Hulkenberg Scores 4, Magnussen Secures Fastest Lap for Haas
