Can Haas Survive in F1 Without Russian Partner Uralkali Amidst Financial Struggles?

An exciting new era is due to begin in Formula One and Haas have been one of the fewest teams that have shown an awful lot of urge in prepping up for it. The American outfit worked their way through the brief financial crisis by striking a long-term deal with Russian chemical company, Uralkali, and have since been looking towards a promising future in the sport.

However, all their hopes are starting to sink amidst the recent developments around the world. The disturbing issue that erupted out of Russia and Ukraine has led to abundant changes in strategic sectors of the world. The United States, too, have shown keenness in ending their economic ties with Russia and this has triggered a direct effect on Haas.

Haas, being a US-based racing outfit, must abide by the laws that the country puts forward. Furthermore, in a bid to refrain themselves from falling on headlines and also voice out their opinion, Haas announced that they would sport the ‘Uralkali’ brand neither on the cars nor in the garage for the time being.

Consequently, Haas will be running with plain white livery on the final day of testing in Barcelona.

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What happens to Haas now?

This doesn’t seem like a temporary move by Haas, as owning any kind of partnership with Uralkali this season could lead to serious consequences. So, let us assume that the ongoing conflict doesn’t end. Now, what happens to Haas?

Well, of course, Haas would primarily have to drop their ties with Uralkali. But, the problem doesn’t end there for the American outfit. Being one of the most financially struggling teams in F1, losing a wealthy partner is a major loss to the team.

And hence, this would lead Haas to have to spend their own pockets to keep the team running which certainly isn’t an easy task. But, there are still ways for Haas to remain a part of F1 this year.

The best route is for Haas to find themselves a title sponsor before the start of this season, which, quite frankly, is almost impractical. But a more practical approach to the Haas issue is that the entire F1 community including the teams and the FIA must come forward to lend their financial support to the American outfit. So, will the teams hear the cries of their colleague and offer the much-needed help?

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