Magnussen FP1 sacrifices "unfortunate"

Antonio Giiovinazzi was yesterday announced to be taking part in seven free practice sessions for Haas this year, filling in for Kevin Magnussen six times while jumping into Romain Grosjean's car just once.

There has been some speculation why that is, and Danish brosdcaster TV2 has called it "unfortunate" that Magnussen will have so much time given up. They say it's possible because Romain Grosjean is struggling to come to grips with the brakes on his car, while Magnussen is much more comfortable with them.

"It is unfortunate for Kevin," the broadcaster's motor racing expert Jens Winther said. "If there is something positive in it, it may be that the team believes Kevin can cope without the Friday sessions more than (Romain) Grosjean can.

"We do know that Grosjean has problems with the brakes, while Kevin is comfortable with them. It could be one of the reasons," Winther speculated. "Unfortunately, it could also be simply about Kevin's points situation, as he has fewer points than Grosjean," he added.

Fergal Walsh