Indy 500 Winner Marcus Ericsson on Norwegian Driver Dennis Hauger’s Potential in Formula 1

Indy 500 winner Marcus Ericsson (32) hopes Dennis Hauger (20) will be able to reach Formula 1 – but is aware that “there is a lot to be said for” if it is to go all the way.

• Marcus Ericsson had five seasons in Formula 1 – without the great success.
• However, he has had that in the American version of Indycar.
• In 2022, he won perhaps the world’s most prestigious single race: the Indy 500.

The Swede knows a lot about Dennis Hauger. Not only because it’s a neighboring country and he follows closely, but also because his little brother Hampus drove a go-kart against the Norwegian.

– Dennis was already fast and skilled back then. Since then it has continued in the car and with the Red Bull system. Dennis really has talent, but it takes so much more than talent to get all the way to Formula 1. That’s what’s difficult, says Marcus Ericsson to VG.

– Do you think Hauger can handle it?

– I don’t know, but I hope so. It would have been fantastic to see a Norwegian in Formula 1.

While Denmark (Kevin Magnussen) and Finland (Valtteri Bottas) have drivers in Formula 1 also in 2023, and Marcus Ericsson is one of many Swedes who have driven there, there is currently no Norwegian who has ever driven in the “grom class” of motor sports.

– It’s probably a lot about traditions, I think, says Ericsson.

– Finland in particular has had strong traditions, and here in Sweden we had successful drivers such as Ronnie Peterson and Stefan Johansson. I think it is a lot about the fact that there are drivers who have been in Formula 1 and who can help the next generation.

VG talks to Ericsson in connection with Viaplay this week launching the documentary “Unleashing The Dragon” about his triumph in the Indy 500. He became the second Swede to win. Kenny Bräck won in 1999.

– A tear came when I saw the documentary for the first time. It’s very emotional. When I see how much it means to so many, not just the driver, says Ericsson.

– It brings in the greatness of the Indy 500. I think it’s hard to see how big it is.

– Are you also thinking of Indycar in the future – or could it be Formula 1 again?

– I don’t think there are any drivers who would say no if they get an opportunity to drive Formula 1. But I’ve done Formula 1 for five years and for me it’s a closed chapter. Now I am here in America and focusing on my career here. I’m the Indy 500 champion and fight at the top of the championship every year. I hope it can be another ten years here. But of course you should never say never.

PS: Dennis Hauger was supposed to race at the Imola circuit this weekend, but the race has been canceled due to extreme weather. He is number six in this year’s Formula 2 championship. Théo Pourchaire from France leads ahead of Denmark’s Frederik Vesti.

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