Günther Steiner has spoken publicly for the first time about his departure from the Haas Formula 1 team at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham
Former Haas team boss Günther Steiner admits it “hurts” that he was unable to officially say goodbye to his former colleagues after leaving the Formula 1 team
“Yes, it hurts [not being able to say goodbye], but they all know me and know that I appreciate what they’ve done,” Steiner said at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham on Saturday, where he made his first public appearance since leaving the US team.
“It would be nice to say ‘Hey guys, thanks for what you’ve done for the team’,” continued Steiner, who used his appearance on stage to say a few parting words to his former team.
“I just want to say thank you to all the team members who I didn’t get to say goodbye to properly when I left. That’s why I’m doing it this way now. And I would also like to thank all the fans who supported us while I was there. It’s fantastic – I thank everyone for the support I’ve received and continue to receive,” said Steiner.
Resignation by phone
The South Tyrolean’s contract with Haas expired at the end of 2023 and was not renewed. On January 10, 2024, the US team announced that the previous Chief Engineer Ayao Komatsu would become the new Team Principal.
Shortly afterwards, team owner Gene Haas explained in an interview on the team’s official website that he was “embarrassed” by his team’s performance and openly admitted that the collaboration with Steiner had ended due to the lack of success. In the 2023 season, Haas finished last in the constructors’ championship
Steiner, who had managed the Haas team since joining Formula 1 in 2016, was informed by Gene Haas by telephone between Christmas and New Year 2023 that his contract would not be renewed. This decision came as a surprise to him, but he recognizes that Gene Haas is free to run the team the way he wants to
Steiner does not want to stay in Formula 1 at any price
As far as his own future is concerned, he is in “no hurry” to make a decision. He does not want to stay in Formula 1 at any price. “I don’t know if Formula 1 wants me,” he says.
“In our situation, I’m in no rush. There will always be people who want to see me in Formula 1, I’ve met a lot of people and made a lot of friends,” says Steiner. “If there is something interesting that challenges me, then yes, but just looking for a job to stay in Formula 1 is maybe not what I want. “
