Kevin Magnussen believes that Haas has realistic expectations for the start of the 2024 season. Despite finishing last in the constructors’ championship last year, the team is focused on improving through development as the year progresses. Guenther Steiner has been replaced as team principal by Ayao Komatsu, who has already acknowledged that Haas will likely be at the back of the grid in Bahrain. However, Komatsu is optimistic about the team’s development plan and its potential for advancement throughout the season.
Magnussen acknowledges that in previous years, there has been unrealistic optimism going into the seasons, which has affected him as well. However, he believes that this year, expectations are being managed more effectively. While Haas has not yet moved out of last year’s position, Komatsu sees a stronger development trajectory and is optimistic about the team’s progress throughout the year. Magnussen recognizes that the competition in the field is fierce, and last year, Haas faced challenges in terms of development. However, this year, with a new concept, the team is better positioned for success. Expectations may be low at the beginning, but they are high for the overall season.
Magnussen admits that there is a possibility that Haas may not make immediate progress at the first race compared to the end of the 2023 season. The team is still getting accustomed to the new concept introduced last year. He describes the update as more of an experiment rather than an upgrade, as it was a sideways move rather than an upward one. However, it allowed the team to commit to the concept of this year’s car and understand its potential and characteristics on the track. Despite the limited time for development, Magnussen believes that progress is being made, although it cannot be guaranteed for the first race in Bahrain. Nonetheless, he finds the development of the car to be more interesting.
According to the Source racer.com