What next for Magnussen?

By Richard Sloop - Motorsport.com

Rumours have circulated the last two days about Jan Magnussen's possible return to Formula One. This is probably due to lackluster performances recently by some rookies and veterans. In addition, several team managers have voiced the desire for more experienced drivers.

We spoke with Magnussen in Denmark and asked him about the rumours.

"I don't know how these rumours get started," said Magnussen. "Right now, I can't tell you anything about them. I am totally dedicated to Panoz development project and plan on seeing it through to the end."

Asked if he was interested in any other series, he stated, "I have never made it a secret that I am interested in Champ Cars. I would like to race Champ Cars in the future."

Jan Magnussen. Photo: Richard Sloop.

Would that be the near future? "I have looked into it and spoken with some people, but right now I am focusing on developing the Panoz. Le Mans is coming up and then the rest of the ALMS season."

Magnussen's experience in Formula One began in 1995 when he substituted for an injured Mika Hakkinen and then drove for the Stewart team during their first year. "I was young then, too young."

Since Formula One, he has raced Champ Cars and Le Mans prototypes. The highpoint coming at Nurburgring last year, when he stunned the racing world with a breathtaking start-to-finish victory over the dominant Audis in the rain. He also took a victory at Mosport. "The Audis have been so strong. Racing in the rain levels the playing field."

Is he praying for rain at Le Mans? "No, I hope the development of the car will have progressed so that we are on par with the rest of the field." At 27, Magnussen has gained the experience and maturity to fulfill whatever rumours presently swirling around him.

We want your opinion!

What would you like to see on Motorsport.com?

Take our 5 minute survey.

- The Motorsport.com Team

Read and post comments