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Why Steiner thinks it is wise to give talent a chance in '25
- Ludo van Denderen
Guenther Steiner once took a rigorous decision as team principal of Haas F1. After a period with Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin, the Italian decided against putting rookies or inexperienced drivers in his cars. Too much damage, therefore too high a damage bill and Steiner preferred to have experienced drivers in the cars. That became Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg. For '25, Haas - where Steiner has since left - did opt for a young talent again. A choice the Italian can understand.
Oliver Bearman (19) will drive for Haas F1 next season; a British driver currently competing in Formula 2. Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Jack Doohan also appear to have a chance for '25 at Mercedes and Alpine respectively. Although Steiner himself opted for experience at the time, he understands the motivations of teams to opt for youth.
In an exclusive interview with GPBlog, Steiner revealed: "I think in the moment, there is no alternative because there are too many drivers who has passed their prime time. And then it's maybe better to take a risk and take somebody young," the former team principal stated from his home in North Carolina, USA.
Steiner: 'Better now than in '26''
Also with an eye on the near future, Steiner says it is smart to have a change of guard just before '25. "Everybody now is looking at '26, new regulations, new era starting. If you want to change a driver, do it now and not in 26, because in 26, you've got a new complete new car and you don't know where you are with the car. So you need a driver. At least, you know where the driver stands," Steiner said.