F1 News: Guenther Steiner "Chilled" After Shock Haas Departure
Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has expressed a relaxed attitude following his recent departure from the team, a decision underscored by the team's struggle for success in Formula 1. In an interview with Autosport, Steiner conveyed his acceptance of team owner Gene Haas' decision.
Key Takeaways:
- Leadership Change: Guenther Steiner's exit from Haas F1 comes in the wake of pointed criticism from team owner Gene Haas. While the official announcement was diplomatically worded, Haas' interview with the Formula 1 website revealed his straightforward dissatisfaction with the team's performance.
- Struggling Performance Record: Haas F1 has experienced a series of disappointments, including finishing last in the 2023 constructors' championship. The absence of podium finishes in over 160 races played a critical role in the decision to change leadership.
- Need for a New Approach: Gene Haas expressed respect for Steiner but stressed the need for better results. The departure was driven by the team's unsatisfactory performance and Haas' desire for a fresh strategy and direction.
During a recent interview with Autosport, Guenther Steiner reflected on his departure from the Haas F1 team which he helped form in 2014 ahead of their F1 debut in 2016. He commented:
“In the end, the contract was up and for me it’s like it always was: ‘if it doesn’t work, just let me know’.
"I’m not hung on anything. Gene Haas owns the team and obviously has got the right to decide what he wants to do.
"Simple as this. If he doesn’t want me around, I’m not [around]. That’s alright, let’s move on. I’m not running and in a rush for the next job – I’m chilled.”
Haas F1 Press Image
Under Guenther Steiner's leadership, Haas F1 faced various challenges but struggled to achieve notable success in the 2023 Formula 1 season. Reflecting on the team's history, Haas noted the lack of podium finishes, highlighting the need for a change in direction. Discussing the reasons behind the decision, Haas said to Formula1.com:
“It came down to performance. Here we are in our eighth year, over 160 races – we have never had a podium. The last couple of years, we’ve been 10th or ninth. I’m not sitting here saying it’s Guenther’s fault, but it just seems like this was an appropriate time to make a change and try a different direction, because it doesn’t seem like continuing with what we had is really going to work.
“I like Guenther, he’s a really nice person, a really good personality. We had a tough end to the year. I don’t understand that, I really don’t. Those are good questions to ask Guenther, what went wrong. At the end of the day, it’s about performance. I have no interest in being 10th anymore.”
The departure of Steiner marks the end of an era for Haas F1 and opens a new chapter for the team as they seek to improve their standings.