Poor performance of Haas has implications for 2025
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At the end of 2024, 14 drivers have their contracts expiring. Only six drivers are fixed after that season. A mega Silly Season lurks ahead, but what are the proportions at the moment? Haas were the worst team in 2023 and there seems little reason to believe that will be any different in 2024. So Guenther Steiner's American racing team will have to make do with the leftovers.
When do the drivers' contracts at Haas expire?
Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg's contracts at Haas expire at the end of 2024. Magnussen and Hulkenberg's deals were extended for another year in 2023.
Hulkenberg looks set to leave at the end of 2024. The German has impressed greatly on his return to Haas and is in the interest of teams that have impressed far more than Guenther Steiner's team in recent years.
Hulkenberg would also have liked to have driven for Sauber in 2024, but Steiner blocked that. Haas had a clause in Hulkenberg's contract for a one-year extension and quickly used that option. The chances of Hulkenberg staying with Haas after 2024 therefore seem slim.
Who will be driving for Haas in 2025?
Magnussen could get a longer contract as an experienced force to ensure continuity, but the Dane made a weak impression alongside Hulkenberg in 2023. At 31, Magnussen could go for a while, but he will need to show more to prove he can lead the team after Nico's departure.
Oliver Bearman seems a logical candidate for the seat next to Magnussen. The Briton already impressed during free practice on behalf of Haas and will be in the hunt for the F2 title in 2024. As part of the Ferrari Academy, Haas could also save some costs on the engine again if it gives a spot to a Ferrari junior.
As the last team on the F1 grid, Haas otherwise have little choice for 2025 and will mainly have to wait and see how the rest of the market develops. Guanyu Zhou, with his Chinese sponsors and three years of experience, is an option for 2025. The same goes for Logan Sargeant with his American sponsors. However, both will prefer to stay with their current team. Haas is thus very dependent on the competition.