Kevin Magnussen Q&A:Belgian Grand Prix

The final round before the summer shutdown brings MoneyGram Haas F1 Team to the legendary Spa-Francorchamps for the Belgian Grand Prix. How prepared were you for your first experience of Spa in a Formula 1 car – what was it like, and as a seasoned driver now – how do you refine your approach to the circuit?

“I actually don’t remember the first time I drove around Spa but it was many years before Formula 1, probably in a Formula 3 car or similar. Of course, in a Formula 1 car it’s more fun and Spa is one of those tracks that feels like it’s made for Formula 1. It’s a favorite on the calendar, it’s a historic track which is really fast, enjoyable and has some legendary corners. As a European driver, it’s also one where a lot of Danish people attend. Preparation-wise, it is no different to any other track, just one you look forward to a little more.”

On top of it already being one of the hardest tracks on the calendar to master, the Belgian Grand Prix becomes a Sprint event this season. How much can you prepare before the VF-23 leaves the garage for the first time and what’s the most important item on your to-do list from the single practice on offer on Friday morning?

“Sprint or normal weekend, it’s the same approach. During the weekend it’s a little different because you only have one practice and then you go straight into qualifying, so you can’t really change the setup. It means there’s a lot less focus on setup naturally because it’s parc ferme conditions basically the whole weekend. I think it’s more fun with these weekends, more action, and you’re under pressure more.”

 

The mandatory 14-day shutdown in August offers many drivers the chance to rest and regroup before the demands of the second half of the season. With the arrival of your second daughter Agnes a couple of weeks ago, have your shutdown plans been decided for you?

“I was very lucky to be home for the birth of Agnes, our second daughter. My wife was due in the middle of the summer break but gave birth a little early. I was stressing a little about the two races before summer break, that she would give birth while I was away, so I’m very happy I was there. I’m looking forward of course to the summer break to spend more time with the family and recharge the batteries for the second half of the season.”