Haas have confirmed the return of Kevin Magnussen to the Formula One team, replacing Nikita Mazepin for the 2022 season.
The American marque terminated the Russian’s contract, along with that of his oligarch father’s company which sponsored the team, amid the invasion of Ukraine.
Mazepin hit out at the decision in a press conference on Wednesday and hours later his replacement was confirmed. Magnussen, 29, spent four seasons with Haas before leaving at the end of the 2020 campaign.
“I was obviously very surprised but equally very excited to receive the call from Haas F1 Team,” the Dane told the team’s official website.
“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.
“Naturally, I want to thank Gene Haas and Guenther Steiner for the chance to resume my F1 career – I know just how competitive they both are and how keen they are to return to competing week in and week out. 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, who began his F1 career with McLaren in 2014, was due to divide his time between racing in SportsCar and the World Endurance Championship this year, before he got the call for a fresh chance in F1.
Haas reserve driver Pietro Fittipaldi was rumoured to step in for Mazepin, but will remain in his role and drive for the team when the second pre-season test in Bahrain begins on Thursday.
“I’m delighted to welcome Kevin Magnussen back to Haas F1 Team,” said Guenther Steiner, Haas team principal.
“When looking for a driver who could bring value to the team, not to mention a wealth of Formula 1 experience, Kevin was a straightforward decision for us.
“Kevin’s immediate availability means we can tap into him as a resource for pre-season testing alongside both Mick Schumacher and Pietro Fittipaldi.”
