Kevin Magnussen admitted he was “surprised” but “excited” to be called up by Haas after the exit of Nikita Mazepin.
The Dane’s name unexpectedly emerged as the favourite for the seat alongside Mick Schumacher on Wednesday, with his return later confirmed by the American outfit in the evening.
More interestingly, Haas announced a multi-year deal with Magnussen, who raced for the team between 2017 and 2020, and he can’t wait to get back behind the wheel.
“I was obviously very surprised but equally very excited to receive the call from Haas F1 Team,” Magnussen said.
Also Read:
- ‘Disappointed’ Mazepin feels ‘ignored’ after Haas exit confirmed
- Haas: Uralkali split the only option after ‘overwhelming’ Ukraine criticism
“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.
“I really have to say thank you to both Peugeot and Chip Ganassi Racing for releasing me promptly – both are great organisations,” he added, referring to the teams he was due to race for in sportscars this year.
“Naturally, I also want to thank Gene Haas and Guenther Steiner for the chance to resume my Formula 1 career – I know just how competitive they both are and how keen they are to return to competing week in and week out.
Reunited ?#HaasF1 pic.twitter.com/LhDtaOp0Q5
— Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) March 9, 2022
“We’ve enjoyed a solid relationship and our positive association remained even when I left at the end of 2020.
“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.”
Magnussen will have to wait to get his first taste of the new 2022 car as freight delays mean Haas only expect to get on track on Thursday afternoon in Bahrain.
Even then, reserve driver Pietro Fittipaldi will be in the cockpit on the opening day of the final pre-season test.