Magnussen Withdraws from Brazilian GP Sprint; Bearman to Compete

Kevin Magnussen will miss the Brazilian Grand Prix sprint race due to illness, with reserve driver Oliver Bearman stepping in to take his place. Bearman will participate in both the sprint qualifying and the race itself, which will be his third F1 outing. Haas F1 Team has expressed their support for Magnussen’s recovery and compliance with FIA regulations is confirmed regarding the use of vehicle components.

Kevin Magnussen, a driver for the Haas F1 team, will not participate in the Friday practice or Saturday sprint at the Brazilian Grand Prix due to illness. In his absence, reserve driver Oliver Bearman will assume driving responsibilities for the VF-24 car. Haas F1 Team has confirmed that Magnussen’s health issue will prevent him from participating on Friday, and they have expressed their wishes for his quick recovery. As a result of the sprint format for this weekend, Bearman will also compete in the sprint race on Saturday morning. It is uncertain whether Magnussen will be fit to return for the Saturday afternoon qualifying session for the main Grand Prix race. He would be eligible to resume driving if he is deemed fit by medical personnel. The FIA has permitted Beeeman to replace Magnussen in the event, emphasizing that Bearman will use the same engine, gearbox, and tires allocated to Magnussen, as per the regulations. This will be Bearman’s third competitive race in Formula 1, and he previously substituted for Magnussen in Baku when the latter served a race ban for accumulating penalty points. Bearman, a Ferrari junior driver and slated to join Haas as a full-time driver in 2025, also stood in for Carlos Sainz of Ferrari earlier this season when Sainz underwent treatment for appendicitis.

The Brazilian Grand Prix is a crucial event in the Formula 1 calendar, particularly this year as it features a sprint race format that alters the standard weekend schedule. Such weekends allow for only one practice session before a qualifying round for the sprint. Kevin Magnussen’s illness marks his second absence this season, following a previous incident that involved a race ban. Oliver Bearman, as a reserve driver for Haas, has gained valuable experience in F1, filling in for other drivers as well. Hence, his participation is significant as it not only affects the team’s standings in the championship but also Bearman’s growth as a driver in the highly competitive environment of Formula 1.

In summary, Kevin Magnussen’s health condition prevents him from participating in the Brazilian Grand Prix sprint, leading to Oliver Bearman stepping in to drive. This incident emphasizes the challenges faced within teams during race weekends and highlights the importance of reserve drivers in maintaining competitive momentum. The FIA’s regulations ensure Bearman will utilize Magnussen’s allocated resources, showcasing the collaborative efforts within the team. Following this weekend, it remains to be seen if Magnussen will be fit to compete in the main race.

Original Source: www.autosport.com