Guenther Steiner explains why Andretti’s F1 survival will be tough

Steiner compares Andretti’s entry with USF1’s failed attempt to join the F1 grid

Guenther Steiner explains why Andretti’s F1 survival will be tough

Guenther Steiner and Michael Andretti (via IMAGO)

Guenther Steiner, the F1 team boss of Haas, spoke about the possibility of struggle the FIA-approved Andretti Autosport may face. Steiner said it would not be easy for a new team to join this gird as an 11th Constructor. He is unsure about Andretti’s plans and thinks they might be futile for his own team, Haas’ future.

Steiner’s own team is struggling to perform well in races. Last week, the American team fell to ninth position in the Constructors Standings. The Italian said that in a world where corporate brands like Volkswagen’s Porshe couldn’t get an entry in F1, it would be extremely difficult for a new to the sport Andretti.

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In his interview with racefans.net, speaking about Andretti’s future in F1, the Haas team boss said, “It’s not easy, to say the least, […] It’s a big challenge.” He continued, “Other people made it, but then they weren’t here for long because you need to also have the capability to stay here. It’s not only getting here – getting is almost as difficult as staying here. So I think it’s not easy.”

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Even after Formula 1’s boom in the United States after Netflix’s Documentary series, Steiner believes it’s going to be really tough for the newcomers, considering how strong of a hold the current ten teams already have. “But maybe not because there are ten solid teams, and if somebody’s really interested, he just has to wait until something is for sale like everything else,” he told the interviewer. “At some stage, everything comes and goes. But starting from zero will be very difficult.”

Lewis Hamilton’s reaction to Andretti’s approval to join the F1 grid.

The seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton shared his thoughts upon learning that Andretti got approved to join the F1 grid. Hamilton believes everyone should welcome newcomers as they bring a lot of opportunities and excitement for the fans to enjoy.

Lewis Hamilton (via Autosport)

“I think it’s great,” Hamilton said. “I’ve always felt there weren’t enough cars on the grid.” He thinks it is obvious for teams not being happy about the decision because of the competition. “It’s another two seats available for a female driver to come through. It opens up more possibilities and I think it would be more exciting for the race,” said the Brit.

The two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso already has a work experience with Michael Andretti. Alonso has previously worked with him in the 2017 Indy 500 race in partnership with McLaren.

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