F1 legend Martin Brundle claims 'friction' between Guenther Steiner and Haas after shock departure

Martin Brundle Inset looks at Guenther Steiner — Photo: © LAT Images

Latest F1 News

F1 legend Brundle claims 'friction' between Steiner and Haas after shock departure

The F1 icon has had his say over Steiner's departure from Haas

Matthew Hobkinson Lead Editor

F1 Editor & Journalist

Thursday 11 January 2024 17:57

Martin Brundle has claimed that the omission of a message from Guenther Steiner in Haas' official statement following his departure as F1 team principal is a sign of 'friction' between the two parties.

The sport was rocked on Wednesday when Haas made the decision to part ways with Steiner after his 10-year spell in charge of the team.

Ayao Komatsu has now been promoted from his role as director of engineering, to become the new team principal for the 2024 season.

Article continues under video

Some have questioned the 'real reason' behind Steiner's departure, and although uncertain himself, Brundle has insisted that there is an overwhelming sign that this was not a smooth transition.

Brundle: Friction between Haas and Steiner

In the statement released by Haas on Wednesday, team owner Gene Haas and Komatsu were the only two people quoted - with no parting words from Steiner himself.

And the Sky Sports F1 pundit believes this paints a picture of what was going on behind the scenes.

"Always significant when the departing person is not quoted in the press release," he penned on social media.

"Tells you there’s friction, suspect we’ll hear more about this. The team hasn’t progressed in recent seasons, but hard to know exactly why without being on the inside.

"Good luck Guenther. And Haas."

Always significant when the departing person is not quoted in the press release, tells you there’s friction, suspect we’ll hear more about this. The team hasn’t progressed in recent seasons, but hard to know exactly why without being on the inside. Good luck Guenther. And Haas https://t.co/dG2VeXiboG
— Martin Brundle (@MBrundleF1) January 10, 2024