It hurts to watch but it’s true; Guenther Steiner has been sacked at Haas. Guenther, the iconic face and founder of the Haas F1 team is out after 8 years. It doesn’t seem that long to be honest but Guenther brought an authenticity to Formula that is going to be exceptionally hard to replicate. To fully understand the implications of his departure, we need to delve into the history of Haas and explore why this is such a seismic event for Formula 1.

Founded in 2014 by Gene Haas, the American-based Haas F1 Team made a bold entry into Formula 1 in 2016. What most people don’t know is that Guenther lead the charge to get Haas a spot in Formula 1. Gene did not decide one day and then was granted a team. Guenther fought hard from the inside and fostered relationships with the FIA in order to persuade the sport to let a new team join. He pioneered the deeper concept of the customer team by purchasing much more than an engine from Ferrari. This is starting to become more of a normal occurrence now, but Guenther helped redefine the process. Haas began the 2016 season with a bang and an 8th place finish in the constructors championship is is no easy feat for a first season team. In a sport dominated by legacy teams, Haas F1’s rapid rise was nothing short of remarkable. Guenther Steiner, with his charisma and strategic prowess, played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity and navigating the challenges of a highly competitive Formula 1 grid.

Fast forward to 2024, Guenther’s departure is not just about losing a team principal; it’s bidding farewell to a force that brought a fresh take on the sport. From the exhilarating highs of Haas F1’s inception to becoming an internet sensation through meme-worthy moments in “Drive to Survive,” Guenther Steiner left an indelible mark. Some might say he “looks like a wanker” but he will always “look like a Legend” to me. His departure signals the end of an era at Haas, prompting questions about the his and the team’s future trajectory.

With Guenther Steiner’s departure, Haas F1 stands at a crossroads. From my perspective, two paths have emerged for the team to survive and thrive in of Formula 1. The first is to step up their game and provide the full turn around Gene Haas is looking for. Haas can capitalize on the departure, reevaluating its internal strategies and operations. Guenther’s intimate knowledge might have been a double-edged sword, and the team could benefit from a fresh perspective. With former Haas Chief Race Engineer Ayo Komatsu being appointed to the main boss, he could steer the “Steinership” into smoother waters. Coming from a technical perspective and not necessarily a leadership role, Ayo may be exactly what Haas needs to switch up their thinking and gain some positions in the constructors’ championship. 

The other option for Haas is to sell to Andretti Autosport. Selling to Andretti Autosport offers a chance for Haas to sidestep the new challenges facing by the team and avoid any further financial losses. If Gene Haas ever wanted to get out of the sport, now is the time. With Haas F1 retaining their Ferrari contract until 2026 provides stability Andretti need. And with their planned shift to Cadillac-based engines under Andretti ownership, it would give Andretti the runway to get their bearings before diving into the 2026 regulations. Almost like a soft opening for them, Andretti can gain invaluable insights into the Formula 1 circus before jumping in fully. There is probably a scenario where Gene Haas can retain some ownership stake so his undertaking is not all for nothing. While the second option is potentially the smarter one, I hope Haas F1 can turn things around and become a real challenger on the grid for 2024 and beyond.

Turning our attention back on to Guenther, he also has some intriguing options ahead of him after his departure. If he wants to stay in F1, I believe he only has 1 option and its perfect for him. Join Andretti Autosport, provided they get their entry into Formula 1 approved. With a wealth of experience, Guenther could seamlessly integrate into Andretti’s endeavors in Formula 1. Building Formula 1 teams is literally what Guenther does. I believe he could get them off the ground and into the groove just like he did at Haas. No only would his strategic side show off, but his character and meme-worthy personality is always a hot ticket item for a new team. All of the focus would be on him and less on the team and drivers. IF, and its a big IF, Andretti can get into Formula 1, Guenther needs to be number 1 on their shortlist. 

Guenther’s second option is to go back to his roots and rejoin rally. WRC is gaining popularity at the moment and his return would be nothing short of a party. Similar to Cryil Abiteboul, former Renault F1 team principal, he could transition into managing a WRC team. WIth the growth of the sport, it wouldn;t surprise me if another team or two join in the next few years. I believe he would enjoy it as he speaks very highly of rally and his time working in rally. Building a team up is what he does and heading back would be a sweet bookend and nostalgic ending for his career as Guenther. Currently 58 years old, he is probably not long for the working world. At least I wouldn’t be if I were him at the same age. Finding that love and passion with a return to rally to cap his phenomenal career is the story book ending Guenther deserves. 

His last option is to stay retired. He already has an illustrious career and is in no need of further accolades. Leaning on the success of his book, he could enjoy the slow life away from Formula 1 and start on a sequel. His personality sure lends it self to a great book. I recently read his “Surviving to Drive” and I have never seen the work “Fok” so many times in my life. Literally laughing out loud while reading it. He has so much knowledge and great stories to tell, writing another book and enjoying the peace of retirement certainly wouldn’t hurt him.

Guenther Steiner’s impact on Formula 1 extends far beyond the successes on the track. From the audacious entry of Haas F1 to becoming an internet sensation, his journey reflects the essence of the sport – a fusion of passion, strategy, and unwavering dedication. As the Formula 1 community bids farewell to Guenther, the ripples of his influence will continue to resonate in the paddocks and the hearts of racing enthusiasts worldwide. Tonight, I will raise a beer for you, Cheers to you Guenther!