With the reveal of the 2021 Formula One regulations, it seems that a number of team are a little intimidated. Already, Mercedes and Red Bull have stated that their participation is doubtful, and now another has joined in. That team, in particular, is Haas F1, at least, that is what team principal Guenther Steiner says.
The American outfit debuted in Formula 1 in 2016 and has since established itself as a consistent midfield runner. In 2018, the American team had one of their best seasons to date, finishing fifth in the championship. Unfortunately, they seem to have taken a step backwards this year. The VF-19 has often proven to be untameable, so they are now stuck in P9 in the championship.
Speaking about the team’s future at the Brazilian Grand Prix, Steiner said, “First of all, it is not certain that they will be here in 2021 because no contracts have been signed. It does not depend on what we do for 2021, but we cannot stop development anyway. We must continue to as if we are staying in Formula 1.”
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According to him, their ability to stay in the sport all hinges on a decision from owner Gene Haas. The 54-year old confessed that there has been no progress on talks of the team’s future in recent weeks.
Gene Haas knows what is best for the team and they are patiently waiting for him to take a call. The team founder is aware that this is an important decision for him. He needs time to weigh everything against each other in a good way.
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Fortunately for them, Haas F1 will be present and accounted for on the grid next season. So they have a full year before making a final decision on whether to stay or leave. Just as in the past three seasons, Romain Grosjean and Kevin Magnussen will be the drivers representing them for the coming season.