As IndyCar Testing Continues, Free Agents Vie for Final Spots

Nov 2, 2014; Austin, TX, USA; McLaren driver Kevin Magnussen (20) of Denmark enters the paddock prior to the 2014 U.S. Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Kevin Magnussen

Upside: A top F1 prospect, Magnussen lit up the 2013 Formula Renault 3.5 grid, then earned a podium in his Grand Prix debut last year. In 19 F1 races, Magnussen scored points on 11 occasions. He nearly retained his ride there after a tough decision between himself and 2009 World Champion Jenson Button.

Questions: Though rumored, Magnussen has only cautiously expressed an interest in IndyCar. He also has responsibilities with McLaren-Honda as their third driver.

Verdict: Magnussen’s Honda ties have linked him to a partial program with Andretti. While it would keep his skills sharp, and though he’d likely succeed in the aerokit era with his high-downforce experience, there is nothing to report until Magnussen himself gains more enthusiasm for the series.