Kevin Magnussen Q&A: Dutch Grand Prix

Welcome back, Kevin. How was your first summer break as a family of four and do you feel rested and recharged?

“I had a good summer break, didn’t do too many things apart from spending time with the family, the girls, and just training. So not much ‘holiday’ stuff, but more just a break which was needed, so all good and ready to go again.”

 

The first race back after the summer break brings Formula 1 to the coastal town of Zandvoort for the Dutch Grand Prix. The Netherlands isn’t too far away from Denmark – are you aware of any traveling Danish support – do you spot the odd flag there? What are your thoughts on Circuit Zandvoort in general now you return to race on it in Formula 1 for a second time? 

“I think it’s the closest race we have to Denmark, but I feel Zandvoort is a completely orange race full of Dutch fans and that’s great. The atmosphere is super special there, but of course, they’re all rooting for their countryman. I like the track, it’s old school and unique and it’s one of those that you definitely enjoy driving a Formula 1 car on.”

What’s the mentality of the team coming back to the track after the break? Is it a case of resetting and looking ahead with renewed motivation, or do you need to be mindful of the strengths and weaknesses of the VF-23, with upgrades still due to be brought? 

“I think it’s clear that we didn’t finish the first half of the season the way we wanted, so we’re all super eager to make a comeback during the season. I think we can do that, we’ve seen some teams making good steps and that’s actually been motivating as much as it’s been annoying. It shows that if they can do it, we can do it too and I think that’s the mentality we’re going into the second half of the season with. I feel we as a team are in a good spot, but with the car, we’re a little behind so I’m looking forward to the challenge and looking forward to working hard to get to where we want to be.”

 

As we move into a busy second half of the season, which races are you looking forward to and where do you think the best opportunities are for MoneyGram Haas F1 Team to capitalize on?

“Of course, the two US races are the ones we’re looking forward to, that’s where we want to do well. Last year, we scored points in Austin and this year we scored points in Miami, so scoring points on home soil is always a good feeling, especially in front of our main partners as well. I’m looking forward to those and hopefully we can be strong there.”