Günther Steiner, former Haas team principal, has transitioned from the high-stress world of Formula 1 team management to a multifaceted career as an analyst, bestselling author, and family man. With a lighter schedule and fresh challenges, Steiner reflects on his journey and the unexpected rewards of his new path.
Life after Haas: A welcome change
After years of steering Gene Haas’ F1 ambitions through the sport’s treacherous waters, Steiner is thriving in his new role. Speaking to Formule1.nl, he said:
“Life is very nice, haha. I enjoy it and I’m learning what life is like without having to run a team. Suddenly, so many new things are happening, and that creates challenges I also need.”
Television work has been a natural fit for Steiner, whose candid personality and deep knowledge of the sport have made him a fan favorite.
“When I interview another team boss, I already know ninety percent of what the answer will be. My aim is to make the sport more understandable for fans.”
However, he remains mindful of the balance between honesty and diplomacy:
“Sometimes it’s difficult because you don’t want to hurt or offend people. On the other hand, you have to be honest—it’s my opinion. No one has to agree with it, but I always try to be respectful.”
A more balanced schedule
Having stepped back from the relentless demands of running a team, Steiner now enjoys a less frantic pace.
“I did twelve Grand Prix weekends last year, so I traveled a lot less, which I really enjoy. Life is a lot less stressful now. I don’t have the responsibility for hundreds of people in a racing team anymore.”
Yet, the tug-of-war between work and family life persists:
“At home, they still complain that I’m not home enough, haha. They say: ‘You’re not in Formula 1 anymore and you travel less, so you should be home more.’ If I can, I take them to a few races.”
Staying connected to Haas
Despite his departure, Steiner continues to follow Haas’ progress closely:
“I still have a lot of friends and connections there. As an analyst, you have to be independent, but I’m happy for the people at Haas and everyone who worked on this car.”
He takes pride in the groundwork laid during his tenure, noting that much of the team’s recent success was built on foundations established while he was still at the helm.
From the pit wall to the bookshelf
Steiner’s sharp wit and colorful storytelling have translated into literary success. His debut book, Surviving to Drive, became a UK bestseller, second only to Murray Walker’s iconic motorsport book.
“The book has been translated into ten or eleven languages, which I don’t think happens very often.”
His follow-up, Unfiltered, offers fans an inside look at the highs and lows of Haas’ journey in Formula 1:
“It’s about how it all started, the problems, setbacks, dramas, and how it ended. It’s written in the same loose style as the previous book: entertaining, not dry or factual like a textbook.”
A unique voice in Formula 1
Günther Steiner’s post-Haas career proves he remains one of the sport’s most relatable and entertaining figures. Whether breaking down the complexities of Formula 1 for fans or penning engaging memoirs, Steiner continues to make his mark.
His ability to combine humor, insight, and honesty has not only endeared him to fans but also allowed him to thrive in a world where the pressure of team management is no longer a constant companion.
