Guenther Steiner’s tenure with the Haas F1 team came to an end in 2023 when his contract was not renewed. This decision was made due to disagreements between Steiner and team owner Gene Haas.
The Haas F1 team gained significant popularity through the Netflix docuseries, where Steiner’s straightforward approach as the Team Principal resonated with viewers since the show’s first season. However, prior to the start of the 2024 F1 season, the 58-year-old was dismissed by Haas. Recent reports suggest that Steiner has revealed the true reason behind his departure.
Previously, Steiner had publicly stated that he and Haas were at odds regarding the team’s future. Steiner believed that more investment in the facilities was necessary, while Haas believed that the team needed to improve its current performance.
Dutch TV presenter, whose name is not mentioned, claims to have had a phone call with Steiner after his exit. However, the main cause of his departure could not be discussed during that conversation. Nevertheless, Steiner sent a message to the presenter afterward.
According to Steiner, he had secured a $20 million sponsor for the team. However, the 58-year-old also wanted to have ownership shares in the American squad, a request that Haas declined. This disagreement ultimately led to Steiner’s controversial departure. In the 2024 season, the 58-year-old will pursue a career in TV punditry with RTL.
Steiner played a crucial role in turning Gene Haas’ F1 ambitions into reality almost ten years ago. Initially, Haas had intended to run Ferrari cars as a customer team. However, this plan was blocked by the FIA and F1. As a result, Steiner negotiated a deal with Ferrari for all non-listed parts and formed a partnership with Dallara. This allowed the project to join the F1 grid in 2016.
The American team has faced numerous challenges throughout its existence in the sport. Steiner’s decision to associate the team with Rich Energy in 2019 turned out to be a major public relations disaster. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic nearly caused Haas to withdraw from the project. However, Steiner managed to secure enough funding through Uralkali to keep the team afloat during these difficult times.
Unfortunately, Guenther Steiner will no longer serve as the Haas F1 team boss. He has been replaced by an unnamed individual whose views on the team’s future are more aligned with Gene Haas. As a result, it is expected that the American team will have a smoother season ahead.