Unlike in previous seasons, when Haas were largely afterthoughts in the driver market, they are front and centre of 2024 discussions. The American outfit has been rejuvenated under Ayao Komatsu, giving them more leverage than usual in contract negotiations. Amidst the drivers on their shortlist is Kevin Magnussen, who remains in contention for a new deal.
Haas make a timely step forward
Whilst decision-makers in F1 often state otherwise, a driver’s perception is inevitably linked to their machinery.
Those consistently fighting at the front are always better positioned to showcase their abilities than those at the back.
This was especially true at the beginning of 2024, when the midfield teams struggled to reach the points.
Luckily, F1 has become more dynamic in recent weeks. With Aston Martin taking a clear step backwards and incidents at the front becoming more common, points are increasingly on the table for teams further down the order.
Haas are the biggest beneficiaries of this change in the playing field. They have also directly contributed to it, bringing updates that have pushed the VF-24 into regular points contention.
Thanks partly to Ayao Komatsu’s leadership, Haas are now well-equipped to keep up with and even outpace their midfield rivals.
With contract discussions intensifying, the team’s step forward in performance could not be better timed for Kevin Magnussen.
The Dane can fight for regular points and, by extension, make a more compelling case about continuing with the team in 2025.
Unlike other drivers fighting for a contract, such as Valtteri Bottas, the 30-year-old can make an impact at the top half of the grid.
Haas still considering alternatives to Magnussen
Despite this, it must be said that Magnussen is in a difficult position. Considering the volatility of this year’s market, several drivers have at least held preliminary talks with Haas.
One of them is Esteban Ocon, who is seen as a leading contender to join the Ferrari-powered team.
Although team principal Ayao Komatsu insists no decision has been taken, he also admitted that Ocon is on the shortlist for 2025.
It remains to be seen to what extent Haas are convinced by the Alpine driver’s calibre. Still, there is no denying that Magnussen has very little margin for error.
If Magnussen wants to be on next year’s F1 grid, he must grasp every opportunity to tip the scales in his favour – starting with next weekend in Hungary.
