Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Guenther Steiner claims without him 'Haas would have been gone'

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Armaan Agarwal | Last updated 1/16/24

Guenther Steiner and the Haas F1 team parted ways at the end of 2023. The American team decided not to renew its contract with the 58-year-old. A lack of results and differences in opinion with team owner Gene Haas is believed to be the reason for this exit. Now, the former Haas team boss has reminded the grid of his crucial role in ensuring the squad’s survival.

The Haas F1 team is the smallest outfit on the F1 grid. It is no surprise that the American squad found itself in a difficult situation during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Gene Haas had made it clear to Guenther Steiner that the team would need to find sponsorship funding to continue its operations.

Subsequently, the Italian-American made the bold call to bring in an all-rookie lineup. Steiner signed Nikita Mazepin and Mick Schumacher for the 2021 season. Mazepin brought in significant backing from Russian giant UralKali while Schumacher attracted German sponsor IONOS.

Guenther Steiner was convinced that without his efforts behind the scenes, the Haas F1 team would not have survived beyond 2020. However, the Italian-American pointed out that Gene Haas had the right to make any decision as the team owner. As such, Steiner did not blame the 71-year-old.

I think without me in 2020, Haas would have been gone. But Gene Haas is the owner of the team, so in the end he is free to do whatever he wants. I can't accuse him of anything. Guenther Steiner told Sky Sports

Guenther Steiner open to a new role on the F1 grid in the future

Steiner might have been pushed to the sidelines before the start of the 2024 season. However, the former Haas team boss could get a new role at a different team in the future. Although, the Italian-American has made it clear that he will be taking some time off with his family in the coming months.

The 58-year-old made it clear that he will still be around the F1 paddock. Potentially, Guenther Steiner could find himself with another opportunity to extend his career in the sport. Before becoming the Haas F1 team Principal, Steiner had worked at Jaguar and Red Bull at the pinnacle of motorsport.

I'm actually fine, my life will continue. I'll have fun, I'll still be around here. Something will come up. I'm doing well.

Certainly, Guenther Steiner remains a massive personality despite his departure from Haas. The Italian-American would undoubtedly be ready to come back to the grid in the future. Although, Steiner seems to be happy to finally share some time away from the hectic F1 calendar with his family.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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