The iconic figure from the popular Netflix documentary series “Drive to Survive,” who served as the team principal of the Haas F1 team for a remarkable 8-year duration, has left a long-lasting mark on the team, filled with memorable moments and significant improvements.
However, earlier this year, a surprising announcement was made about his dismissal from the team, leaving fans and onlookers curious about the reasons behind this decision just before the start of the 2024 campaign.
Why exactly did Guenther Steiner leave Haas?
Guenther Steiner was always a key figure for the American team with his harsh yet honest feedback towards the Haas drivers. Essentially, his straightforward personality showcased in the Netflix series “Drive to Survive” became one of the reasons for his rising fame in the entertainment industry.
However, earlier this year, the Italian received an unfortunate phone call from team owner Gene Haas, which started a new chapter in Steiner’s lifestyle. His 8-year-old tenure with the team was brought to a sudden end.
⚠️ | Dutch Journalist Jack Plooij on what happened between Günther Steiner and Haas:
— Fastest Pitstop (@FastestPitStop) February 24, 2024
"Günther and I spoke at the beginning of the week, but we weren't allowed to ask how it actually went with Haas and what he would do. But then he sent me a message, allowing me to tell what… pic.twitter.com/gdsJRcloA3
On the other hand, the team owner strongly claimed that the sudden sacking of Steiner was not decided to trigger Steiner at all. The F1 Haas team has been struggling to keep up with the other teams and finished in 10th place in the constructors’ standings for the second time in three years, resulting in a loss of $20 million in prize money compared to the 2022 season. As a result, Gene has decided to revamp the entire team by hiring new members to improve their on-track performances and strategic planning for success.
He said, “I’m not sitting here saying it’s Guenther’s fault or anything like that, but it just seems like this was an appropriate time to make a change and try a different direction.”
What is next for Guenther Steiner?
Earlier on, Steiner had shown an interest in eventually resting for a while before deciding on another move for his career. At the Autosport show in the UK, he stated, “At the moment, I just want to relax a bit.”
Guenther #Steiner is leaving #Haas, to be replaced by Ayao Komatsu. The changes also include the creation of a new position – chief operating officer. Gene Haas emphasizes the need to improve on-track performance and focus on engineering. #F1 #F1PL #F1News #News #ViaF1 https://t.co/a02pNU2J64
— Marcin Nowak 🇵🇱 (@MarcinNov) January 10, 2024
However, recent reports indicate that the 58-year-old has secured a new role as part of the permanent presentation team at RTL Germany. The network is set to air seven races this season. His new role has the responsibility of analyzing and discussing seven Grand Prix events on television. These races include those in Bahrain, Hungary, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, Baku, and Las Vegas, providing a new opportunity for Steiner to start his career again.
What are your opinions on Steiner’s new job? Tell us about your opinions in the comment section below.
