Kevin Magnussen to Join BMW's Factory Sportscar Roster in 2025

Dec 5, 2024 at 9:16 AM
In the world of motorsport, significant announcements often send ripples through the racing community. One such announcement that has captured the attention of fans and enthusiasts alike is the confirmation that outgoing Haas Formula 1 driver Kevin Magnussen will be joining BMW's factory roster for the 2025 season in sportscar racing. This move marks a new chapter in Magnussen's career and brings a wealth of experience and talent to BMW's racing program.

A New Chapter Begins - Kevin Magnussen Joins BMW in 2025

Haas's Decision and Magnussen's Uncertainty

Kevin Magnussen's departure from the Haas team for 2025 was a surprise to many. The American team's decision to sign Esteban Ocon and Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman left Magnussen on the sidelines, unsure of his future. At one point, he wasn't ruling out remaining in the F1 paddock as a test driver, highlighting the uncertainty that often surrounds a driver's career. However, fate had other plans as BMW came calling.During the summer, Magnussen was in a state of limbo, not knowing where his racing career would take him next. But as the Abu Dhabi F1 finale approached, BMW made a bold move by announcing that it had added Magnussen to its factory LMDh line-up in sportscar racing. This was a significant moment for both Magnussen and BMW, as it signaled a new era of collaboration and competition.

BMW's Racing Program and Magnussen's Excitement

BMW currently competes in the World Endurance Championship and the IMSA Sportscar Championship with its M Hybrid V8. The addition of Kevin Magnussen to its factory sportscar roster for 2025 is a major boost for the team. Magnussen himself expressed his happiness and pride at representing such an iconic motorsport brand.After 10 years in Formula 1, Magnussen is ready to embark on a new and exciting chapter. He looks forward to taking on the challenge in the most innovative and advanced sports cars in the history of endurance racing. His extensive experience in F1 will no doubt be an asset to BMW's project, as he has regularly demonstrated his speed at the highest level.

Magnussen's Past Racing Achievements

Magnussen's racing resume is filled with notable accomplishments. In 2021, he contested a full sportscar campaign in IMSA with Chip Ganassi Racing in a Cadillac, winning the Detroit Sportscar Classic. He also competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans that year, finishing 17th in the LMP2 class in an Oreca shared with Anders Fjordbach and his father Jan Magnussen.These past achievements show that Magnussen has the skills and determination to succeed in sportscar racing. His experience in different racing series and his ability to adapt to new challenges make him a valuable addition to BMW's team.

Final Races of the 2024 F1 Season

As the Abu Dhabi F1 finale approaches, Magnussen comes into the event having finished ninth last weekend in the Qatar GP. This was his fifth race scoring points in 2024, demonstrating his consistent performance on the track. His only grand prix podium so far remains a second at the 2014 Australian GP, when he was second for McLaren on his F1 debut.These final races of the 2024 F1 season are a fitting backdrop for Magnussen's transition to sportscar racing. His experience and skills will no doubt serve him well as he looks to make an impact in his new role with BMW.