Kevin Magnussen, the Danish former Formula 1 driver, is preparing to step onto the NASCAR stage for the first time at the inaugural Cup Series race in San Diego, California. The 28‑year‑old will pilot a Project91 Trackhouse Racing entry, a program that has already showcased talents such as Kimi Raikkonen and Shane van Gisbergen.
Magnussen’s journey to stock car racing began after his departure from Formula 1, where he accumulated experience in the World Endurance Championship and the IMSA SportsCar Championship. Since leaving the premier open‑wheel series, he has been testing and refining his craft with the Trackhouse organization, spending recent weeks in North Carolina to acclimate to the team’s environment and the unique demands of oval and road‑course competition.
Project91’s Vision Takes Shape
Expressing his enthusiasm, Magnussen said he is excited about the opportunity to compete in a new discipline and to prove that drivers from outside the traditional NASCAR talent pool can thrive at the highest level. He highlighted the Project91 initiative as a crucial platform that opens doors for global talent, noting that the program’s philosophy aligns with his own belief in the universality of racing skill.
Justin Marks, the creator of Project91 and a veteran of American motorsport, welcomed Magnussen’s inclusion, emphasizing that the Danish driver embodies the initiative’s goal of diversifying the driver lineup with internationally proven competitors. Marks noted that the partnership with Qualcomm, a worldwide technology brand, underscores the commercial and technical ambitions behind the program.
The upcoming San Diego event will not only mark Magnussen’s debut but also serve as a showcase for the broader vision of Project91, which seeks to blend cutting‑edge engineering, global driver development, and a fresh narrative for NASCAR’s expanding audience. As the series prepares for its first Cup race on the West Coast, the addition of a driver with Magnussen’s pedigree adds a compelling storyline to the schedule.