KANNAPOLIS, N.C. – The Haas Formula One team has announced that team principal Guenther Steiner will not be returning for the 2024 season. The decision comes after a disappointing 2023 season in which the team finished last in the constructors’ World Championship. Owner Gene Haas has decided not to renew Steiner’s contract, citing the team’s poor performance as the reason for the change.
Steiner was instrumental in the establishment of the Haas F1 team, formulating the plan to use Ferrari technology and securing funding from machine tools manufacturer Haas. However, tensions between Steiner and Haas have been evident, with disagreements over the team’s technical direction. This was exemplified by the differing aero packages used in the last two races of the 2023 season.
The team’s poor performance has significant financial implications, as finishing in 10th place means a decrease in the team’s share of the F1 prize fund. Haas will need to provide a larger budget for the 2024 season, leaving less room for investment in facilities. In contrast, other teams such as Williams, Sauber, and AlphaTauri have taken advantage of increased spending allowances, preparing for the upcoming regulation changes.
Replacing Steiner as team principal will be Ayao Komatsu, who has been with the team since its debut in 2016 as chief race engineer. Komatsu’s appointment highlights the team’s focus on improving its engineering capabilities and on-track performance. The team also plans to hire a new chief operating officer to handle non-racing matters.
Gene Haas expressed his gratitude to Steiner for his hard work and outlined the team’s commitment to improving its on-track performance. Komatsu, as the first Japanese team principal of a European-based outfit, is eager to lead the team and build a structure that produces better results.
Guenther Steiner played a significant role in raising the team’s profile, notably through his appearances on the Netflix series “Drive to Survive.” The departure of Steiner may have an impact on the team’s sponsorship deals, including title sponsor Moneygram, as Steiner’s presence was seen as a positive attribute by sponsors.
In conclusion, Guenther Steiner will not be returning as the team principal for Haas F1 team in the 2024 season. The decision was made due to the team’s poor performance in the 2023 season. Ayao Komatsu has been appointed as the new team principal, bringing a focus on improving engineering capabilities and on-track performance. The team is determined to increase its competitiveness and achieve better results moving forward.