Kevin Magnussen Q&A: British Grand Prix

The season has been a challenging one for the team, especially these last two races. Is the challenge with the car replicating the issues you’ve endured, or is it a matter of just finding a consistent form from practice to qualifying to the race?

“We’ve had some difficult race weekends lately. We’ve been struggling for race pace. The car is proving to be very good in qualifying, but it’s not working to its optimal performance in the race. That’s what we’re pursuing – race pace – and working hard to find the fix. If we look at the positives, the car is performing well in qualifying spec.”

Despite the results, a massive amount of time and energy is being invested by team personnel into finding a solution to better the car’s performance. As one of the main faces of the team, is one of your roles beyond driving keeping the team motivated and focused as all of you prepare for the British Grand Prix?

“As a driver it’s tough, as I’m not an engineer. We have a good understanding, but there’s not too much we can do other than be supportive and give constructive feedback. You just have to keep cool and deliver what’s expected from being a driver. You then trust in the team, which I do, to find the solutions.”

Silverstone is one of the fastest tracks in Formula One, but it’s not necessarily from long straights but rather from long, flowing corners. Can you describe the feeling of speed you experience at this power circuit?

“Silverstone is definitely one of the best tracks in the world. It has extremely high-speed cornering and that’s always where a Formula One car really shines with its downforce. It really shows its power. Silverstone is perfect for that.”

The British Grand Prix is a home race for the majority of the Formula One industry, yet its future at Silverstone remains a bit uncertain. Whether it is from a historical perspective or a logistical one, do you view Silverstone as one of those iconic Formula One venues that needs to remain on the schedule?

“I definitely think it needs to stay on the schedule. I’m crossing my fingers that it will. I see the idea of racing on the streets in London –that would be very cool, as well – but I desperately hope they’ll keep the Silverstone race. It’s an iconic race and it’s also just such a phenomenal track to drive. I also think it’s great for fans. I’ve watched races there as a spectator and it’s definitely a track where you can get a sense of speed, especially watching at Maggotts and Becketts, as well as Stowe and Copse. It’s just a phenomenal track.”