Steiner: F1 Teams Will Take More Chances on Rookies After Impressive Season
Gunther Steiner, former Haas F1 team boss, believes the exceptional performance of current Formula 1 rookies will inspire teams to take more risks on young drivers. Steiner lauded the consistent growth and skill shown by all newcomers, singling out Isack Hajar, Oliver Bearman, Gabriel Bortoleto, and Liam Lawson for their strong displays. Mercedes' Toto Wolff also noted Kimi Antonelli's impressive adaptation after initial pressure, hinting at a potential shift towards a younger F1 grid.
Former Haas F1 team principal Gunther Steiner believes that the strong performances from the current crop of Formula 1 rookies will encourage teams to be more daring in giving young talent a chance. Steiner praised the growth and skill displayed by these new drivers, noting that none of them have been genuinely disappointing.
Why it matters:
F1 teams have historically been cautious about bringing in unproven talent, often preferring experienced drivers. However, if Steiner's prediction holds true, a new wave of young, dynamic drivers could enter the sport, potentially refreshing the grid and offering exciting new rivalries and narratives.
The details:
- Universal Praise: Steiner asserted that there isn't a "really disappointing rookie" this season, highlighting that all have shown significant potential and growth.
- Isack Hajar: Initially, Hajar stood out to Steiner, but his consistent performance has made him seem less like a rookie, indicating a smooth transition and rapid adaptation.
- Oliver Bearman: Bearman, who recorded a career-best fourth place at the Mexico City Grand Prix, "came alive in the second half of the season, doing a great job," according to Steiner.
- Gabriel Bortoleto: Despite a slow start in a challenging car, Bortoleto demonstrated his ability when opportunities arose, though Steiner noted he might have gotten "a little bit too excited" in his last two races.
- Liam Lawson: Steiner acknowledged Lawson's talent, noting he needed time to recover from his earlier races with Red Bull but is now performing well.
- Kimi Antonelli: Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff observed that the pressure of driving for a top team initially affected Antonelli's form. However, Antonelli has since adapted to F1's demands, leading to an impressive upsurge in his performance.
What's next:
Steiner's assessment suggests a shift in team strategy, potentially leading to more young drivers being given F1 opportunities in the coming seasons. This trend could inject new energy and talent into the sport, creating a more competitive and unpredictable environment. The success of these current rookies might serve as a blueprint for future driver development programs, encouraging teams to invest more heavily in nurturing emerging talent from feeder series.