Kevin Magnussen prepares for NASCAR debut with Project 91
It is not every day you see an F1 regular trading in the complexities of modern grand prix machinery for the raw, fender-rubbing intensity of a NASCAR Cup Series machine. Yet, there is Kevin Magnussen, roaming the San Diego paddock with a smile and a serious focus ahead of his debut in the No. 91 Project 91 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing. After a full-time 2024 stint with Haas F1 Team, the 33-year-old is ready to see if his versatility holds up on the American stage.
The challenge is significant, especially with the high bar set by Shane van Gisbergen, who stunned everyone by winning on the Chicago Street Course in his first Cup Series start back in July 2023. Magnussen is clearly leaning on his family history—his father, Jan Magnussen, previously tested for Hendrick—to prepare for the transition. Even Jenson Button has chimed in with advice, warning him that in this series, if you give them any room, they will turn you around.
Magnussen clocked in 29th out of 39 cars during Friday’s practice, a humble start as he grapples with the learning curve of racing with his “elbows out.” He remains admirably open-minded about the whole affair, fully aware that he has limited time to adapt to the machine before Sunday’s green flag. It is a bold move, but as Magnussen puts it, there is no form of motorsport he wouldn’t try.
