Kevin Magnussen is set to make his NASCAR Cup Series debut at the inaugural street‑course event in San Diego, scheduled for June 21 at Naval Base Coronado. The race marks the first time the city’s downtown layout will host a top‑level NASCAR event, and Magnussen will pilot the No. 91 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing’s Project 91 program.
The Danish driver brings a résumé that includes 185 Formula 1 starts, a debut podium, a pole position at the 2022 Brazilian Grand Prix, and a full‑time seat in the World Endurance Championship, where he recently finished second at Spa. His experience in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Rolex 24 at Daytona and an IMSA victory in Detroit underscores a versatility that Trackhouse sees as a perfect fit for the new program.
A Danish driver's leap into NASCAR
Project 91, launched by Trackhouse founder Justin Marks, is designed to provide world‑class racing talent with a clear pathway into NASCAR. Magnussen joins Shane van Gisbergen, Kimi Raikkonen and Helio Castroneves as the fourth driver to receive the program’s backing, a list that highlights the international appeal of the initiative.
The No. 91 car will be sponsored by Qualcomm Technologies, a partnership that underscores the technological focus of the program. Crew chief Phil Surgen, who guided Ross Chastain to six Cup wins and a runner‑up finish in the 2022 championship, will work alongside Magnussen to fine‑tune the Chevrolet for the unique demands of a street circuit.
Magnussen expressed both excitement and honor at the prospect of competing in NASCAR, noting that the opportunity aligns with his long‑standing ambition to test himself across different motorsport disciplines. He also reflected on his father Jan Magnussen’s own brief NASCAR foray at Sonoma in 2010, a memory that adds a personal layer to his upcoming debut.
The upcoming race will not only showcase Magnussen’s adaptability but also signal Trackhouse’s intent to blend road‑racing pedigree with American stock‑car competition. Fans can expect a fresh narrative as a former Formula 1 contender steps onto a new stage, bringing a global perspective to the NASCAR Cup Series.