A New Chapter in Stock Car Racing
Kevin Magnussen, the Danish former Formula 1 driver who spent a decade competing at the highest level of motorsport, is poised to step into a new arena. On June 21, he will make his NASCAR Cup Series debut at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, piloting a Chevrolet fielded by Trackhouse Racing’s Project 91 program.
The race will take place on the historic street circuit that winds through the naval base, marking the first time a Danish driver has contested a NASCAR Cup event. Magnussen will be joined by a lineup of international talent that the series hopes will broaden its global appeal.
Magnussen’s résumé includes 185 Formula 1 starts between 2014 and 2024, a podium finish on his debut at the Australian Grand Prix, and a reputation for adaptability. After leaving F1, he turned to sports‑car competition, capturing an IMSA victory in 2021 and honing his skills in endurance racing.
Expressing his excitement, Magnussen said the move represents a fresh challenge and a chance to learn a completely different style of racing. He praised Project 91 for its mission to give drivers from outside North America an opportunity to compete on a major U.S. stage.
The Danish driver previously tested NASCAR machinery in 2022, describing the experience as “learning to drive a race car from scratch.” His background in high‑downforce, single‑seater cars should provide a unique perspective as he adapts to stock‑car dynamics.
Project 91, launched by Trackhouse Racing, has already attracted other international stars such as Shane van Gisbergen, Helio Castroneves and Kimi Räikkönen. Their participation underscores the program’s ambition to blend global racing pedigrees with American stock‑car competition.