The news of Guenther Steiner’s surprising departure from Haas continues to reverberate through the F1 community, sparking speculation about the team’s future. Amid rumors that owner Gene Haas might be considering selling the team, possibly to Andretti, and with Simone Resta also leaving, the team’s direction is under scrutiny.
In response to the speculations regarding a potential sale, Gene Haas has firmly asserted his commitment to the team and his intention to remain in Formula 1 for the next decade. The departures of Steiner and Resta have led to concerns about Haas’s path in F1, with Andretti, an American team eager to enter F1, being mentioned as a possible buyer if Haas decides to step away.
However, Haas has decisively rejected any notions of seeking an exit, signaling his determination to stay actively involved in the sport and dispelling rumors of a potential sale. The situation adds an extra layer of intrigue to the evolving landscape of Formula 1.
Gene Haas turned down Hollywood investment
Last year, a group of American investors, including Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds, purchased a 24% share in the Alpine F1 team.
As the fallout from Haas’s week continues, Mr. Haas has stated that he, as the owner of the sole American team on the F1 grid at the moment, was approached as well.
“We have had outside investors come in, and they wanted to talk to us,” he told me.
Christian Horner shares Guenther Steiner exit experience
Steiner was involved in the early development of Red Bull’s Formula 1 project long before he became a stage, film, and bookshelf celebrity as Haas F1 team manager.
Christian Horner, Red Bull team principal, has revealed why Steiner was let go, drawing an interesting connection to his exit from Haas.
“Guenther was and is a character but it was obvious he was not a technical leader,” Horner went on to say.
Haas departure tipped for Ferrari return
While Steiner’s next move is unknown, fellow departee Resta is expected to rejoin Ferrari.
Resta’s departure triggered a day of sweeping change for Haas on Wednesday, with Steiner’s 10-year tenure as team principal ending just hours later.
Resta, who has bounced between Ferrari and client teams Alfa Romeo and Haas in recent years, is said to be returning to Maranello following the end of his loan period at Haas – but will play no role in the Scuderia’s F1 activity.