Komatsu, the head of Haas Formula 1, has announced that the team will be expanding. This decision comes after a successful season that has convinced owner Gene Haas to invest in a hiring spree. Komatsu took over as the team’s leader at the start of the season, replacing long-standing Team Principal Guenther Steiner. This unexpected move was made in response to Haas’ poor performance in the previous season, where they finished at the bottom for the third time in four years.
Steiner had warned that without additional funds, Haas would struggle to keep up with their better-funded competitors. However, Haas has defied expectations this season, accumulating more points in 14 rounds than they did all of last season. This success has led Gene Haas to authorize an expansion of the team’s workforce. Komatsu emphasized the importance of performance in convincing the owner, stating that they have shown improvement and now need to demonstrate further progress. Despite the ongoing recruitment drive, the team has not yet added new members, but the positive atmosphere created by working together has already made a difference in their performance.
Komatsu has revealed how he convinced Haas Automation CEO Bob Murray to visit the team’s Banbury headquarters and attend Formula 1 races, which played a crucial role in Gene Haas’ change of heart. The former Lotus engineer explained that by exposing the team’s senior management to the world of F1, he was able to strengthen his chances of achieving the growth he desired. Komatsu’s strategy focused on getting individuals like Bob, who has been Gene’s trusted associate for nearly four decades, and Gene himself, to understand the requirements for success in Formula 1.
This approach was a departure from the previous strategy, which may have been counterproductive. Komatsu believed that if the owner didn’t grasp the reality of the sport, frustration would arise from unattainable expectations. Therefore, it was essential for Gene to gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in Formula 1. Bob’s involvement was particularly significant, and Komatsu expressed his satisfaction with the commitment shown by both Gene and Bob. When signing Komatsu, Bob assured him of his support and willingness to collaborate, demonstrating the dedication of the parent company. Komatsu expressed his gratitude for Bob’s actions, which solidified his confidence in their shared vision.
Photo from Haas Instagram
