Kevin Magnussen Q&A: Japanese Grand Prix

Some drivers decide to stay in Singapore after the race while others choose to travel to Japan for a few extra days before activities begin in Suzuka. What was your travel plan?  

“After the race, my team and I stayed in Singapore for a few days, hung out and did some training. It feels good at least to just chill out and train well the day after the race and do what we need to do physically to prepare for Suzuka.”

Your best result at Suzuka came in your first season at Haas with eighth place. What is it about this circuit that sets it apart from others?

“It’s just a cool track, it’s super high-speed and the flow of the track is incredible. I also think there’s been some amazing battles throughout the years here in Formula 1. There’s a lot of Senna history here and that era of Formula 1 where history was really made, for example with that lap one, turn one incident between Senna and Prost. I think it’s good to have a variety of Formula 1 races so it’s not all the same. Suzuka is unique in that sense and I think that’s great.”

 

The race weekend is also unique for the passion the fans bring, again, in whatever the weather. Is it something as a driver during a busy race event you notice?

“They’re just so enthusiastic. The fan culture in Japan is something else and Formula 1 is really celebrated there, with lots of merchandise and homemade hats and flags. They’re really into it and that’s always cool to see.”