Magnussen Merits F1 Spot Suggests Hulkenberg

Nico Hulkenberg supports Kevin Magnussen’s continued presence in Formula 1, highlighting his merit within and potentially beyond Haas F1.

Kevin Magnussen should “certainly” still be in contention to remain at Haas or elsewhere in F1 in 2025.

This is the view of Nico Hulkenberg, the Danish driver’s current teammate, who has signed to join Sauber next year before the Swiss team transitions to Audi F1 in 2026.

Hulkenberg has overshadowed Magnussen since joining Haas last season, but this has not prevented their previous on-track rivalry tensions from evolving into a stronger friendship.

Thus, amid increasingly strong rumors that Haas F1 will oust Magnussen and replace him with Esteban Ocon starting in 2025, Hulkenberg believes his current teammate should still be considered in F1, at Haas or elsewhere.

“Definitely! I hear the rumors about Esteban but I don’t believe it’s signed.”

“Obviously, it’s not my responsibility or decision, but I think Kevin has also been very consistent this year.”

“There have been moments and sessions where very small details have made the difference between him and me. Often, the result on TV seems huge, but in reality, it’s very small things.”

“I think he’s doing a very good job. And I have access to much more data and can see exactly what happened on his side. I still think he’s a candidate here, but maybe also for other teams.”

However, recent comments by Magnussen suggest that the Dane is also preparing for a potential career outside F1—perhaps in WEC or Indycar.

Magnussen’s “bad boy” image, including an aggressive driving style and the threat of a race suspension as his super license points accumulate, has recently come to the forefront again. There have also been signs of tension between him and the team’s new boss, Ayao Komatsu.

“In Formula 1, we know you’re only as good as your last race,” admits Magnussen.

“Things are quickly forgotten and the perception of a driver can change very quickly. Based on just one or two races, it can change radically. That’s how F1 works.”

Magnussen agrees with Hulkenberg that his F1 career could survive beyond 2024, but he is also adopting a mature approach to what the next chapter might hold.

“This is what most of us have dreamed of since childhood. No matter what people say, Formula 1 is the dream of most young drivers.”

“When you’re here, it’s fantastic and it’s a great opportunity. If you get the chance, take it. But I’ve also had experiences outside of F1 that were incredible.”

“Whatever happens, I’m pretty relaxed.”