Haas F1 Already Has Focus on 2022 Car, Reveals Guenther Steiner

Many teams are targeting the 2022 technical regulations as a chance to reverse their fortunes. One outfit focused on making the same efforts are Haas F1, who have spent a lot of time at the back of the grid.

The American side first came into existence in 2016 and have since gotten the odd spectacular points finishes. A podium or even a race win is still a fair distance away, given their performances’ history.

Therefore, the team will now ideate and look to build a much more efficient and effective car for the 2022 F1 season. Speaking in an interview, team principal Guenther Steiner revealed that former Ferrari engineer Simone Resta is helping them in their cause.

Resta’s time will be ‘99% focused’ on 2022 Haas F1 car by February end: Steiner

Steiner stated, “He’s spent the first few weeks getting himself accustomed with what we’re doing.

“He has got involved in this year’s car – there were some design changes because of the regulation changes (surrounding mainly the floor area) but now, 80% of his time is focused on 22’, and by end of February it will be 99% focused on 22.”

Haas are of course a customer team to the mighty Scuderia Ferrari, so any changes in the Italian giants’ engines will impact them as well. From that regard, having Resta work on their car for the next season makes total sense.

“We are preparing to be better, but I don’t know what the reality will be. We know it could be tough, but we will manage it,” concluded Steiner.

Haas’ driver pairing shows signs of promise for the future

Steiner’s team have decided to go forward with a rookie duo of Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin for 2021. The former, in particular, has been much talked about. Many people also believe that he is one of the crown jewels of the Ferrari Driver Academy as well.

Securing the F2 championship last season, Mick has experience of showcasing a winner’s mentality. That now needs to culminate into extracting maximum performance at Haas, as he continues to receive Steiner’s tutelage.

But ultimately, Haas have also taken a risk in undertaking two rookie drivers for the foreseeable future at least. How they adapt to the surroundings and the pressure of F1 is something that remains to be seen.

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