Kevin Magnussen Set for NASCAR Cup Debut with Trackhouse's Project 91

Kevin Magnussen, who left Formula 1 after the 2024 season and moved to sports car racing, is now stepping into the world of stock cars. The 32-year-old Dane will make his NASCAR Cup Series debut on June 21 at Naval Air Station North Island in California, driving Trackhouse Racing's #91 Chevrolet Camaro as part of its Project 91 program.

Why it matters:

Project 91 has become a gateway for elite international drivers to experience NASCAR. Shane van Gisbergen won his debut in 2023 and parlayed that into a full-time Cup ride; Kimi Räikkönen ran a race in 2023 as well. Magnussen – a former Haas F1 driver with 185 starts, a podium, and a famous 2022 pole – brings proven road course chops. His entry underscores how NASCAR's Next Gen car has made it easier for open-wheel stars to compete, and it continues to blur the lines between racing disciplines.

The details:

• Magnussen will drive the #91 Camaro in the race at Naval Air Station North Island, a unique venue on a military base near San Diego.
• He left Haas F1 after the 2024 season and has since won class victories in the World Endurance Championship and IMSA.
• Preparation included a trip to Trackhouse's North Carolina facility for seat fitting, pit stop drills, and team briefings.
• Quote: "I'm incredibly excited and honored. What Justin Marks and Trackhouse have done with Project 91 is unique. I've spent time with the team – they're an awesome group, incredibly dedicated. I can't wait to get to San Diego and experience it all."
• The race will be on a temporary road course built on the naval air station's runways, similar to the Chicago street course where van Gisbergen triumphed.

What's next:

Magnussen's NASCAR debut is a one-off, but if he impresses, opportunities could follow – van Gisbergen's path shows the potential. For now, it's a fascinating crossover moment that will draw attention from both the F1 and NASCAR worlds. The June 21 race is part of a unique weekend showcasing motorsport's ability to adapt to non-traditional venues.