Former Haas team principal Günther Steiner has transitioned from the stressful world of Formula 1 team management to a multifaceted career as an analyst, best-selling author and family man. With a lighter schedule and new 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 stormy waters, Steiner is thriving in his new role. Speaking to Formule1.nlhe declared:
“Life is very good, haha. I'm enjoying it and learning what it's like to live without having to manage a team. Suddenly so many new things are happening, and that creates challenges that I need too.”
Working in television was a natural fit for Steiner, whose outspoken personality and deep knowledge of the sport made him a fan favorite.
“When I interview another team manager, I already know ninety percent of what the answer will be. My goal is to make the sport more understandable for fans.”
However, he remains aware 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—this is my opinion. No one has to agree with that, but I always try to be respectful.”
A more balanced schedule
Having taken a step back from the relentless demands of managing a team, Steiner now appreciates a less frenetic 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 no longer have responsibility for hundreds of people on a racing team.”
However, the tension between professional life and family life persists:
“At home they still complain that I'm not home often enough, haha. They say: 'You're not in Formula 1 anymore and you're traveling less, so you should be at home more.' If I can, I take them to a few races.”
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Stay connected to Haas
Despite his departure, Steiner continues to closely monitor Haas' progress:
“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 is proud of the foundation laid during his tenure, noting that much of the team's recent success is based on foundations laid while he was still at the helm.
From the pit wall to the shelf
Steiner's quick wit and colorful storytelling skills translated into literary success. His first book, Surviving to Drivebecame a bestseller in the UK, 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 next book, Unfilteredoffers fans an insight into the highs and lows of Haas' Formula 1 journey:
“It’s the story of how it all started, the problems, the setbacks, the drama, and how it ended. It’s written in the same casual 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 that he remains one of the most accessible and entertaining figures in sport. Whether breaking down the complexities of Formula 1 for fans or writing a gripping memoir, Steiner continues to leave his mark.
His ability to combine humor, insight and honesty has not only earned him the affection of fans, but also allowed him to thrive in a world where the pressure of team management is no longer a constant companion.
