Amidst a pivotal reshuffle, Haas F1 is poised for a financial uplift, promising a strategic overhaul and fresh investments.
The Haas team might soon enjoy an influx of additional funds, a move critics of the team say is long overdue. Günther Steiner, the team’s long-standing principal, left the team over the winter following a dispute with team owner Gene Haas regarding investments.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher told Sky Deutschland, “The team’s structure is not future-oriented and does not look ahead. Investments are pending, but not realized because Gene Haas has other ideas. It’s currently a nice small team for newcomers like Oliver Bearman.”
However, according to Steiner’s successor as team leader, Ayao Komatsu, Gene Haas actually promises more investment: “From day one, Gene’s message was crystal clear. He said he had money, he was ready to invest, but we had to show him that we could use this money responsibly and efficiently.”
“It’s no coincidence he’s a billionaire, right? He hates wasting money. We can improve in many areas, which is why his message didn’t worry me. I know he will invest when we get there.”
A motorhome and new employees
Komatsu even reveals that Gene Haas has already promised to fund a new motorhome for the circuits: “He has already authorized the purchase of a new motorhome for next year, and it’s not a small investment. We’re also actively recruiting, a considerable number of people, given our size, has been approved.”
The implication of Komatsu’s comments is that Haas, 71, was not willing to promise more money under Steiner’s reign, whose choices were clearly not to his owner’s liking.
“Gene said we need to spend money more wisely, and that’s what I’m trying to do. It’s a gradual process. Nothing happens in one day,” continues Komatsu. “But Gene and his right-hand man are very involved and supportive. The new number of people might not be significant for Mercedes, but it is for us.”
“We need to regain trust, so to speak. But even if we increase the number of people now, it will take six months before they start working. For now, I’m focusing on what we have, on efficiency, and on developing the car the right way.”
Haas F1 Team Eyes Boost in Funds Amid Changes. Haas F1 Team Eyes Boost in Funds Amid Changes
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