Haas’ Ferrari Partnership Extension Puts Honda Rivals’ Plan to Enter F1 Into Jeopardy

The newest team on the grid, Haas has enjoyed a close partnership with Ferrari since their debut in 2016. Despite having a tumultuous nine seasons in F1, the all-American team is keeping its faith in Ferrari’s power unit. Now, extending their partnership beyond the ongoing season, Haas has signed a new deal with the Italian side. Gene Haas’ team will continue to race with Ferrari engines until 2028.

This is a huge boost for both the teams. With the changes in F1’s engine regulations from 2026 onwards, the new contract ensures long-term stability for Haas through the new era. Besides, the huge data that’ll be collected would benefit both teams to enhance their performance. “I’m thrilled to extend our relationship with Scuderia Ferrari until 2028,” team boss Ayao Komatsu said on the matter.

Haas claims their relationship with the Maranello-based has always been special. And why shouldn’t it be? Ferrari has been a major power behind Haas and their nine seasons in the sport. Ayao Komatsu further expressed: “I’m delighted we now have more seasons ahead and my thanks go to Fred Vasseur and many others at Scuderia Ferrari for continuing to show faith in our project.”

However, this renewed contract has now jeopardized Toyota’s dreams of taking over Haas. The Japanese manufacturers intended to supply power units to the American team. Taking inspiration from Audi’s strategy, they would have taken over the team by 2026/27. However, bringing an end to the aspirations, Haas took a bold move.

Toyota’s dreams to acquire Haas will remain unfulfilled until 2028

Following its massive failure from 2002 to 2009, Toyota never returned to the highest level of motorsport. Meanwhile, their adversary Honda, became a successful company with six championships as engine manufacturers. But until recently, Toyota is finding a way to return to F1. They are eyeing Haas, as a potential team to initially supply engines and other components. Later, they could take over the American team. Walking in the footsteps of Audi, they planned to have 100% ownership of Haas until 2026.

But well, this is now a far-fetched dream. Despite a former partnership with McLaren which ended in 2023, the Japanese company was aiming for a full-fledged entry into the sport. Haas could’ve been the perfect ground for experimenting and enhancing. However, giving that opportunity to Ferrari, Haas has highlighted their allegiance. Moreover, Ferrari Academy’s driver, Oliver Bearman is joining Haas in 2025. So, credits were due, weren’t they?

This means, Toyota has to wait until 2028 for their next move. In between, if something happens – sudden contract termination or dispute (which seems unlikely) then Kazuki Nakajima must act smartly. Meanwhile, Haas has found their ground in F1. Displaying their best performance at the British GP earlier in July, they’ve maximized their output. This could be a potential reason behind the collaboration. However, the season isn’t over yet, the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix is going to be equally crucial.

Will Haas continue with their good performance? What do you think about the Haas-Ferrari deal? Share your take in the comments.