JUST IN : Guenther Steiner Rejects F1 Return, Confirms Move to MotoGP with TECH… Read more
Guenther Steiner Rejects F1 Return, Confirms Move to MotoGP with Tech3
Former Haas Formula 1 boss Guenther Steiner has confirmed the next chapter of his motorsport career, turning down multiple opportunities to return to F1 in favor of a new challenge in MotoGP.
Steiner, who became one of the most recognizable figures in Formula 1 through his outspoken personality and role in Netflix’s Drive to Survive, was let go by Haas at the start of the 2024 season after a decade at the helm. Ayao Komatsu replaced him as team principal, bringing an end to Steiner’s turbulent but memorable run with the American outfit.
Rather than staging an immediate comeback to Formula 1, Steiner has decided to shift his attention to two-wheeled racing. He has joined forces with a consortium that has purchased the Tech3 MotoGP team from long-time owner Herve Poncharal. Under the new structure, Steiner will serve as the team’s CEO beginning in 2026, while his business partner Richard Coleman will take on the role of team principal.
Coleman revealed that despite several genuine opportunities for Steiner to re-enter the world of Formula 1, the Italian was determined to move in a different direction. “Guenther has had quite a few offers and bits and pieces from F1,” Coleman told Autosport. “But we’ve both been in situations before where relationships with others became strained, and this time we wanted something that was completely on our terms. Here, we’ll have full control over the project.”
For Steiner, the decision represents not just a change of scenery but also a continuation of a career defined by versatility and a willingness to embrace new ventures. He first made his name as a rally mechanic before moving into team management roles, later helping Red Bull establish their NASCAR project in the United States. His spell in F1 with Haas added another layer to his CV, and now MotoGP will become the fourth major motorsport discipline in which he has played a leadership role.
When asked why he chose not to pursue another opportunity in Formula 1, Steiner explained that the time was right for a fresh challenge. “Why not another project in Formula 1? Well, first of all, MotoGP has always been something I was interested in but never had the time to explore,” he said. “It looked exciting, and now I finally have the chance.
“I think with F1, I’ve done it. I’ve been there for long enough, and I felt it was time to try something new. I’ve always enjoyed tackling fresh challenges. When I moved to the United States, it was to set up a NASCAR team while still being involved in F1. People thought it was impossible, but we made it happen. Formula 1 is fantastic, but it’s not the only thing in motorsport. For me, life is about pushing myself into new environments and seeing if I can succeed.”
Steiner’s move will undoubtedly be watched with interest across the racing world. His outspoken style and business acumen made him one of the most colorful figures in Formula 1, and MotoGP fans will be eager to see how he applies those qualities to motorcycle racing. For Steiner, the decision signals not a step back from motorsport, but a bold new chapter in a career built on risk-taking, ambition, and an appetite for reinvention.
About The Author
