Guenther Steiner, former head of the only American Formula 1 team, Haas F1 Team, departed sadly this week, leaving many fans nostalgic for his entertaining interviews and memorable moments from his time with the team. While his replacement, Ayao Komatsu, may be a natural fit for Steiner’s old job, it is certain that he won’t bring the same level of enthusiasm to the role. Therefore, fans have been reminiscing about some of their favorite Guenther Steiner moments to keep the spirit alive until he hopefully lands another opportunity or his workplace sitcom hits the airwaves.
One of the most memorable incidents involving Guenther Steiner was his reaction to the 2019 British Grand Prix crisis, when Haas drivers Kevin Magnussen and Romain Grosjean crashed on the first lap, leading to punctures and retirements for both cars. This incident resulted in Steiner choosing strong words for his two drivers, which was later revealed in the second season of the popular show, “Drive to Survive”. Magnussen’s response to Steiner’s words was particularly memorable, as he slammed the door of Steiner’s office in frustration.
Another notable moment occurred during the 2022 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where Haas driver Kevin Magnussen finished ninth, earning the team two valuable points. During a post-race interview, Steiner made a statement that was open to interpretation, leaving the Haas PR representative and the interviewee visibly surprised. The team even uploaded a clip of the interview to YouTube, adding to the controversy and speculation surrounding his comments.
Steiner’s humorous side was evident when he gave Russian driver Nikita Mazepin a spinning top in 2021, jokingly suggesting that it was “better than spinning the car”. This lighthearted gesture highlighted Steiner’s ability to address challenging situations with humor and wit.
In a less comical and more refreshing moment, Steiner’s dynamic with former Scuderia Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto showcased their great chemistry. The two had a unique rapport, with Binotto being calm and soft-spoken, while Steiner represented a more assertive and direct approach. Their partnership could have led to an interesting travel program, given their contrasting personalities.
One of the most memorable and somewhat uncomfortable moments was captured in a roast at a Haas screening where Steiner made a brutal joke about Romain Grosjean, causing nervous laughter among the attendees. This incident highlighted Steiner’s unfiltered sense of humor and direct approach to communication.
These moments represent just a few of the memorable instances involving Guenther Steiner, but they serve as a reminder of his impact on the sport and the entertainment he provided. As fans continue to share their favorite Steiner clips and memories, it is evident that the 2024 Formula 1 season will not be the same without him.
In conclusion, Guenther Steiner’s departure from Haas F1 Team has left a void in the sport, with fans reminiscing about some of his most iconic moments. While it remains to be seen what the future holds for Steiner, his impact on Formula 1 will not be forgotten. Whether he lands another team or finds success with his workplace sitcom, his larger-than-life personality will be sorely missed in the paddock.
