Marc Gené
via f1oversteer.comGene Haas won’t let Haas become a Ferrari ‘junior team’ despite Oliver Bearman dealHaas F1 Team is actively exploring driver options for the 2027 season, with Esteban Ocon's seat up for grabs. Among the candidates are reserve driver Jack Doohan, Ferrari junior Rafael Camara, and McLaren's Leonardo Fornaroli. Despite Camara's impressive track record, team owner Gene Haas is hesitant to sign him due to concerns about being labeled a Ferrari junior team, which he wants to avoid. Oliver Bearman is confirmed to stay with the team, but Haas is weighing its options carefully.
The team is currently seventh in the standings and has faced challenges in development compared to rivals. They are under financial constraints and are looking for ways to enhance their competitiveness without becoming overly reliant on partnerships with manufacturers like Ferrari or Toyota. The upcoming decision on driver line-ups is seen as pivotal for the team's future direction, as they strive for greater independence while navigating the complexities of the driver market.
f1oversteer.comThu 17 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via f1technical.netKomatsu rejects claims Gene Haas has lost interest in Formula 1Ayao Komatsu, the team principal of Haas, has strongly refuted claims made by former principal Günther Steiner that Gene Haas has lost interest in Formula 1. Komatsu emphasized that Haas has been present at every European race this season, except for the Dutch Grand Prix, and is expected to attend several upcoming races, indicating his continued commitment to the team.
Komatsu characterized Haas as an enthusiastic owner who maintains high expectations for the team's performance. He acknowledged that while Haas's pressure for results can lead to frustration, it also reflects his deep investment in the team's success. Overall, Komatsu's comments suggest that Haas remains actively involved and dedicated to the team's progress in Formula 1.
f1technical.netThu 3 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Guenther Steiner ‘stayed two years too long’ in fresh Gene Haas criticismGuenther Steiner, the former team principal of Haas F1, has expressed concerns about the team's direction under owner Gene Haas, suggesting that Haas may have lost interest in Formula 1. Steiner, who was with the team since its inception in 2016, noted that the team has struggled to replicate its early success, finishing at the bottom of the standings on two occasions since then. After being replaced by Ayao Komatsu, Steiner reflected on his tenure, stating he should have left the team earlier due to differing visions for its future.
Despite the challenges faced by Haas, Steiner's departure marks a significant change for the team as it attempts to improve its performance in the Constructors' Championship. Currently sitting in seventh place, Haas is 40 points behind competitors Racing Bulls and Alpine. Steiner has since transitioned to motorcycle racing, joining a consortium that acquired the Red Bull KTM Tech3 MotoGP team.
PlanetF1Tue 25 Aug · 14:09 UTC
via thejudge13.comIs Haas Quietly Preparing to Become Toyota’s Factory F1 Team?Haas F1, which entered Formula 1 in 2016, has undergone significant changes over the years, including financial struggles and management shifts. The team has transitioned from a low-cost entry strategy to a more complex partnership with Toyota, which has led to infrastructure upgrades and a rebranding as TGR Haas F1 Team. Despite these changes, Haas has faced challenges on the track, including a lack of competitive performance and driver turnover.
The departure of team principal Guenther Steiner in early 2024 marked a new era for Haas, with Ayao Komatsu taking over leadership. The team's financial stability has improved, and it is now self-sustaining, but questions remain about Gene Haas's long-term vision for the team. Analysts speculate that Haas may eventually evolve into a factory team for Toyota, given the significant investment and support from the manufacturer.
thejudge13.comTue 18 Aug · 12:51 UTC
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner opens up on breakdown of relationship with Gene HaasGuenther Steiner has opened up about his relationship with Gene Haas following his departure from the Haas F1 team. He confirmed that he currently has no relationship with Haas, stating that their communication deteriorated after 2020, particularly following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite having disagreements in the past, Steiner indicated that they were able to resolve issues until communication dwindled significantly.
Steiner expressed acceptance of Haas's decision to move the team in a new direction and highlighted the importance of respecting the owner's choices. He conveyed a sense of closure regarding his time at Haas, stating he is content to move forward without any lingering ties to Haas.
Motorsport.comTue 18 Aug · 10:00 UTC
via F1iSteiner still doesn’t understand Gene Haas’ aims in F1Guenther Steiner has openly expressed his confusion regarding Gene Haas' objectives in Formula 1, particularly in light of the team's stagnation and lack of competitive progress since its inception in 2016. Steiner, who left his role as team principal in 2024, believes that Haas should strive for more than just participation and should aim for podium finishes, a goal that has eluded the team since its early successes. His comments suggest a fundamental disconnect between his ambitions and the current direction of the team under Haas' ownership.
Steiner reflects on his tenure, admitting he may have stayed too long and struggled to communicate his vision for the team's future. He highlights the need for commitment and ambition in F1, criticizing the current focus on merely scoring points rather than competing for victories. His departure underscores a broader concern about whether Haas shares the same competitive spirit that Steiner believes is essential for success in the sport.
F1iTue 18 Aug · 09:37 UTC
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner admits he stayed at Haas too longFormer Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has expressed regret about staying with the team longer than he should have, admitting he remained for two additional years before his departure. He also indicated a willingness to return to Formula 1 if presented with an appealing project.
Motorsport.com+ 2 moreMon 17 Aug · 15:07 UTC