Guenther Steiner Reveals Haas Banned Him from F1 Stewards Meetings Over Fines

Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner disclosed that the team eventually prohibited him from attending F1 stewards' meetings to discuss driver penalties. His frequent visits often resulted in fines and additional penalties for the team, leading Haas to conclude that his blunt communication style was counterproductive.

Why it matters:

Guenther Steiner's tenure at Haas was marked by his outspoken nature and no-nonsense approach, which gained him significant popularity through Drive to Survive. This revelation offers a humorous yet insightful look into the often-contentious relationship between F1 teams and race stewards. It underscores the fine line teams walk between advocating for their drivers and inadvertently incurring further sanctions, highlighting the unique pressures and frustrations within Formula 1's regulatory framework.

The Details:

• During an appearance on The Red Flags Podcast, Steiner discussed Oscar Piastri's penalty at the Brazilian Grand Prix, suggesting McLaren should have more aggressively defended their driver.
• When asked if he would have confronted the stewards in a similar situation while leading Haas, Steiner candidly admitted that his team had eventually banned him from doing so.
• Team's Rationale: According to Steiner, Haas management explicitly told him, "Guenther, you're not allowed to go," explaining that his interventions often led to new penalties and fines.
• Steiner's Perspective: He argued that if he believed a decision was wrong, he felt compelled to challenge it, even if his direct communication style was perceived as unhelpful by the officials.
• Challenges of Stewarding: Steiner acknowledged the difficulty of the stewards' job, emphasizing that he would never want to be one, especially given the unpaid nature of the role.
• He concluded by stating that if he had been in a similar situation to Piastri's, he "would have flipped out," reflecting his passionate and often confrontational style.

The Big Picture:

Steiner led the Haas F1 Team from its inception in 2016 through the end of the 2023 season. Known for his candid remarks and colorful language, he became a fan favorite. Since his departure, he has remained a prominent figure in F1 media, appearing on podcasts, working as a specialist commentator for German television, and taking on an ambassadorial role for the Miami Grand Prix. His comments provide a glimpse into the internal dynamics of an F1 team navigating regulatory challenges and the personality clashes that can arise.

What's Next:

While Steiner's direct involvement with team-steward interactions is behind him, his ongoing media presence ensures that his unfiltered opinions continue to shape discussions within the F1 community. His perspectives often resonate with fans who appreciate his honesty and willingness to speak his mind, providing valuable commentary on the sport's officiating and team strategies.