Haas drops Magnussen for 2025, Ocon tipped as replacement

Haas Formula 1 team has announced that Kevin Magnussen will not be retained for the 2025 season, signaling a significant shift in their driver lineup.

This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate the team's performance and competitive standing in the sport.

End of an Era for Magnussen

Kevin Magnussen's departure marks the end of a significant chapter for both the driver and the team.

The Danish racer has been a cornerstone of Haas' driver roster, having competed for the American outfit in two separate stints since 2017.

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu acknowledged Magnussen's contributions, stating,

"Kevin has truly been a bedrock of our driver line-up over the years. Nobody's driven more races for us and we've had some memorable highlights together."

Magnussen's best result for Haas was a fifth-place finish, achieved on three occasions, with his highest championship standing for the team being ninth in 2018.

His unexpected return to the team in 2022, following the departure of Nikita Mazepin, showcased his adaptability and value to the organization.

The next chapter: Esteban Ocon

While Haas has not officially announced Magnussen's replacement, sources close to both Haas and Mercedes have informed BBC Sport that Esteban Ocon is set to fill the vacant seat.

Ocon, currently racing for Alpine, brings a wealth of experience and proven talent to the team.

This move would pair the Frenchman with British driver Oliver Bearman, creating an entirely new driver lineup for Haas in 2025.

Partnerships and future plans

Haas' driver shakeup is just one part of a larger strategic overhaul.

The team has extended its engine supply agreement with Ferrari until the end of the 2028 season, ensuring continuity in a crucial technical partnership.

Additionally, rumors are circulating about potential collaboration with Toyota, which could provide Haas with valuable engineering support and resources.

The team is also investing in its infrastructure, planning to move into a new factory to enhance its performance capabilities.

In preparation for this move, Haas representatives recently toured the Mercedes facility in Brackley, gathering insights for their own future base.

Magnussen's legacy and future

Despite the end of his driving duties, Haas is exploring ways to maintain a relationship with Magnussen.

Komatsu hinted at potential future collaborations, stating,

"I'm hoping we can find a way to keep working together in some capacity. "

"We can hopefully define that in the near future, but his extensive experience in F1 and knowledge of our working operations are undoubtedly of value in our ongoing growth and development."

Magnussen himself expressed gratitude for his time with the team, particularly highlighting Gene Haas's decision to bring him back in 2022.

"I'm proud to have raced for such a great team of people these last few years,"

Magnussen said.

"In particular I'd like to thank Gene Haas for his commitment to me, notably in bringing me back once again in 2022 when I thought, at that time at least, my time in F1 had ended."

As Haas embarks on this new chapter, the team's bold moves in driver selection, technical partnerships, and infrastructure development signal a clear intent to climb the Formula 1 ranks.

With Ocon's potential arrival and the rumored Toyota collaboration, Haas is positioning itself for a competitive future in the sport's ever-evolving landscape.