“I Won’t Push Him” – Steiner Maintains Haas Still Counting on Romain Grosjean for Next F1 Race

The fiery crash of Romain Grosjean became an instant talking point during and following the Bahrain GP. Largely because in the sport’s recent times, no one had seen an incident like that.

Grosjean’s own bravery and superb work by FIA marshals and medical team on the spot meant that the French driver escaped largely unhurt. He was taken to the nearby hospital and was later revealed to have sustained minor burns on his hands and ankles.

Haas F1 team principal, Guenther Steiner, was equally shocked at the sequence of events. However, he refused to add to the speculation of whether Grosjean would be fit enough to take part in the upcoming Sakhir GP race.

Steiner does not want to speculate about Romain Grosjean replacement

Speaking in an interview after the race, Steiner stated, “I won’t push him. He has to deal with that with himself. I stick to what he says. And I don’t know how he’ll feel tomorrow either. Tomorrow the adrenaline is gone and he feels the bruises, and then he thinks maybe a little different than today.” (translated via Google Translate)

The terrible accident naturally will raise doubts about Grosjean’s availability, and whether he would be fit enough to race at next weekend’s Sakhir Grand Prix on December 6.

Steiner is simply focused on giving his French driver some time.

The Haas team boss added, “But as I said: I don’t want to speculate about who could replace him as long as we don’t know whether we have to replace him at all. I would now like to give Romain a little time to let everything go through his head before he gives us feedback. Then we’ll look further.”

“At the moment, Romain is driving. And if not, then we’re ready. We know what we would do,” concluded Steiner.

Haas do have reserve drivers to take Grosjean’s place if needed

Based on the boss’ words then, as it stands, Grosjean will take to the wheel and pair up with teammate Magnussen as usual. However, if it does come to appointing a replacement, Haas has Pietro Fittipaldi and Louis Delétraz ready to take Grosjean’s place.

Regardless, nothing will be confirmed until the 34-year-old Frenchman himself does not offer an update on his condition. Until then, Haas F1 will await his status, before taking a final call on their drivers’ lineup for the forthcoming race.