Official: Steiner Sues Haas F1 in Court

Günther Steiner has sued Haas F1 over unpaid commissions and unauthorized image use, a move sparking significant legal and industry attention.

Judicial documents have revealed that Günther Steiner has initiated legal proceedings against the Haas F1 Formula 1 team. The lawsuit was filed in Mecklenburg Court, North Carolina, USA.

Steiner was the team’s director since its inception in 2014 and oversaw its assembly until its debut on the grid in 2016. He then remained in his position until the end of the 2023 season.

Due to lack of results in recent championships, Gene Haas replaced him with Ayao Komatsu, who was the track engineering director.

The Italian is now taking legal action against his former team, claiming unpaid commissions from 2021 to 2023 and the use of his image in promotional materials and merchandise.

The document notes that Steiner’s third period of employment extended from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2023, during which time Steiner asserts he was supposed to receive annual payments for previous seasons.

Steiner claims that Haas violated his employment contract by failing to pay certain commissions.

“After years of reaping the benefits of Mr. Steiner’s reputation, experience, and deep connections within the sport, Haas F1 cannot deny Mr. Steiner the benefits he has earned,” the pleading notes.

The pleading also emphasizes that Haas continues to sell merchandise featuring his likeness!

Steiner alleges that Haas acted without his authorization following their separation and that no royalties have been paid to him.

Steiner gained popularity through his prominent role in the Netflix documentary series Drive To Survive, where his constant presence and memorable quotes made him one of the most recognizable figures in the paddock.

“Haas F1 does not have the right to use Mr. Steiner’s name, image, and likeness or to exploit them in any form of media following the termination of his employment,” states the legal document.

“Haas F1 has not compensated Mr. Steiner for the unauthorized use of his name, image, or likeness (drawings, caricatures, etc.).”