Hulkenberg explains how relationship with Magnussen ‘turned into a friendship’ as he reflects on team mate’s Haas exit

Nico Hulkenberg has reflected fondly on his two seasons spent being team mates with Kevin Magnussen at Haas, with the German admitting that their relationship underwent “quite the turnaround” after an infamous spat between the pair at the 2017 Hungarian Grand Prix.

Hulkenberg had called the Dane “the most unsporting driver on the grid” during an argument in the media pen following an on-track clash at the Hungaroring seven years ago. As such, when it was announced that the two drivers would be paired up at Haas in 2023, there was much speculation over whether things could be tense.

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However, both were happy to put the incident behind them – with Hulkenberg previously revealing that they broke the ice when he returned to the grid as a ‘super-sub’ during 2022 – and they have gone on to enjoy a good relationship whilst working together over the past two years.

With it being confirmed this week that Magnussen will depart Haas at the end of the current campaign, Hulkenberg was asked for his thoughts on the 31-year-old and what his future could hold.

“I enjoyed working with him these two years,” Hulkenberg explained. “It's been definitely enjoyable and we get on really well, after our little romance here a couple of years ago!

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“It was actually quite the turnaround of a relationship and kind of turned into a friendship. I think we work well as a team. We're kind of pushing in the same direction most of the time and, yeah, it's been nice and a pleasure.

“I wish him well and all the best for his future.”

Magnussen’s next steps have yet to be announced, though the Danish driver has stated that he is still hoping to find another seat in F1.

Hulkenberg, meanwhile, will also exit Haas at the end of 2024 as he moves to Kick Sauber ahead of the squad’s transition into being Audi’s works outfit in 2026.

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This leaves Haas with one vacancy for 2025, with Oliver Bearman confirmed for one of the seats earlier this month.