Haas to field old-new spec car

Steiner Confirms Innovative Approach to Car Development

The decision to revert, in part, to an older specification is highly unusual in the fast-paced world of Formula 1, where continuous development is the norm. However, Haas’s struggles with its current VF-19, particularly regarding its unpredictable aerodynamic performance, necessitated a radical approach. The team had been grappling with a perplexing lack of pace and a significant disparity between simulator data and real-world performance, prompting them to initiate a comparative test program.

Romain Grosjean played a pivotal role in this assessment, spending three races piloting the original specification VF-19. Meanwhile, his teammate, Kevin Magnussen, continued to run the updated version of the car. This direct, real-world comparison provided invaluable data, allowing the team to isolate the problematic areas and identify potential solutions. Guenther Steiner elaborated on the findings and the team’s path forward:

We left the door open but it will be almost a hybrid. It won’t be completely the old car coming back, it will be a hybrid. What we found out with that car, how it is working aerodynamically, we can introduce some of those parts on this car for Sochi. That is the status and the car stays the same now.

But if one does it the other one does it. It will not be a comparison any more. We got that one figured out. Our focus now is on implementing the best elements from both specifications to provide our drivers with a more consistent and predictable package. The objective is to achieve a clearer understanding of the car’s performance window and build a solid foundation for the future.

This statement from Steiner underlines the complex engineering challenge Haas faces. They are not simply returning to an old design, but rather cherry-picking components and aerodynamic concepts that performed well in the original specification and integrating them with the most effective parts of the current car. The immediate target for introducing these changes is the upcoming race in Sochi, suggesting that the team is working rapidly to capitalize on their findings.

Crucially, Steiner confirmed that both drivers, Grosjean and Magnussen, will race with the same specification for the remainder of the year. This move is designed to eliminate any variables stemming from differing car setups and allow the team to focus on maximizing the performance of a unified package. The previous situation, with two different car specifications on track, created a logistical and analytical challenge that proved counterproductive. By standardizing the car, Haas hopes to gain a clearer understanding of its strengths and weaknesses, paving the way for more targeted development in the 2020 season.

Social Media Pulse: Insights from the Motorsport World

Beyond the immediate team news, the world of motorsport continues to buzz with activity, and social media offers a unique window into the lives of drivers, teams, and key figures. Here’s a look at some notable posts that captured attention:

We gathered the whole team for the ultimate group photo. 📸👌#FearlesslyForward 🧡 pic.twitter.com/wC6VOYcsDv

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) September 13, 2019

McLaren F1 shared a heartwarming image showcasing their entire team in a group photo, accompanied by the hashtag #FearlesslyForward. This post highlights the strong team spirit and unity within the Woking-based outfit, which has seen a significant resurgence in performance during the 2019 season. Such displays of camaraderie are vital for morale and demonstrate the collective effort required behind every successful Formula 1 operation, from the pit crew to the engineers and management.

End of 2 testing days with MercedesGP such a great feeling to be back in the car after 10months of wait !
But sorry boys caution in 2020 won’t happen 🤷🏻‍♂️😋! #EO31 pic.twitter.com/4r2SCCldC0

— Esteban Ocon (@OconEsteban) September 13, 2019

Esteban Ocon, the talented French driver, posted an update after concluding two days of testing with Mercedes-GP. His excitement was palpable, expressing joy at being back in a Formula 1 car after a ten-month hiatus. Ocon’s tweet, playfully asserting “caution in 2020 won’t happen,” hinted at his strong intentions for the upcoming season, following a year on the sidelines as Mercedes’ reserve driver. This period of testing was crucial for Ocon to regain his rhythm and demonstrate his capabilities ahead of his confirmed return to a race seat with Renault for 2020, replacing Daniel Ricciardo.

Here’s @alo_oficial shaking down the Toyota Hilux he’s racing in the Lichtenburg 400, round five of the South African Cross Country Series, which starts today. pic.twitter.com/rjb6Y4u1pq

— RaceFans (@racefansdotnet) September 13, 2019

RaceFans provided a glimpse into Fernando Alonso’s diverse motorsport adventures, sharing a picture of the two-time Formula 1 world champion shaking down his Toyota Hilux. Alonso was preparing for the Lichtenburg 400, the fifth round of the South African Cross Country Series. This foray into rally raid was part of Alonso’s ambitious exploration of different motorsport disciplines, including his successful stints at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and his eventual participation in the Dakar Rally. His commitment to mastering various forms of racing continues to captivate fans globally.

• Find more official F1 accounts to follow in the F1 Twitter Directory

Further Motorsport News & Insights

Beyond the immediate headlines, the broader motorsport landscape is always bustling with interesting developments and discussions. Here’s a round-up of other noteworthy links and news items from around the world of racing:

IndyCar Aeroscreen Track Test Set for October 2nd at IMS (IndyCar)

IndyCar made significant strides in driver safety with the announcement of an Aeroscreen track test scheduled for October 2nd at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This innovative driver protection system, developed in collaboration with Red Bull Advanced Technologies (RBAT), is designed to encapsulate the cockpit with a ballistic Aeroscreen. The RBAT design features a titanium framework for anchoring and a polycarbonate laminated screen that boasts an anti-reflective interior coating, an integral heating element for anti-fogging, and the potential for tear-offs – all produced by integrated third-party companies. Additionally, Dallara, in conjunction with Red Bull Advanced Technologies, will design a cockpit cooling option, ensuring driver comfort alongside enhanced safety. This development underscores IndyCar’s commitment to pioneering safety measures in open-wheel racing.

Da Costa: Desire for ‘Freedom’ a Reason for BMW Split (e-racing365)

Antonio Felix da Costa, a prominent figure in Formula E, shed light on his decision to part ways with BMW, citing a desire for greater professional freedom as a key factor. In an interview with e-racing365, Da Costa explained that while his time with BMW was valuable, his aspirations as a professional racing driver extended beyond the constraints of a single manufacturer’s program. This move highlights the evolving landscape of driver careers in motorsport, where individuals increasingly seek opportunities across multiple series and disciplines, valuing flexibility and diverse challenges over exclusive ties to one team or brand. His decision ultimately led to his move to DS Techeetah, a highly successful team in Formula E.

Gran Turismo World Tour Takes Over Hangar-7 (FIA)

The FIA-certified Gran Turismo Championships demonstrated the growing prominence of esports in motorsport, as the Gran Turismo World Tour descended upon the iconic Hangar-7 in Salzburg, Austria. This unique venue, created by Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz and renowned for its impressive collection of aircraft and racing cars, hosted 51 of the best virtual competitors from 18 different countries. For two intense days, these elite gamers battled for individual glory in the Nations Cup and teamed up for the Manufacturer Series, showcasing the competitive spirit and skill involved in high-level sim racing. The event further solidifies the position of Gran Turismo as a leading platform for virtual motorsport and its recognition by official governing bodies like the FIA.

F1 Hybrid Engines Will Play ‘Major Part’ in Reducing Vehicle Emissions, Says Carey (F1)

Chase Carey, then chairman and CEO of Formula 1, emphasized the crucial role that F1’s advanced hybrid engine and fuel technologies can play in the broader global effort to reduce vehicle emissions. In an official F1 statement, Carey articulated the sport’s belief that its innovative powertrain solutions can serve as a leading example in addressing carbon emissions. He stressed that “the solution will be a path of many rather than one cure-all,” indicating F1’s commitment to contributing to sustainable mobility through diverse technological advancements. This perspective aligns Formula 1 with broader environmental concerns and showcases its potential as a relevant testbed for future automotive technologies, moving beyond just pure racing performance.

The Next Chapter: Daniel Ricciardo Reflects on Team Differences (The Checkered Flag)

In an insightful interview with The Checkered Flag titled “The next chapter,” Daniel Ricciardo offered a candid comparison between his experiences at Red Bull Racing and Renault. The charismatic Australian driver highlighted the differing cultures and operational styles of the two teams. Ricciardo noted that Red Bull “releases more expression,” describing it as a more “freestyle” environment with numerous events and activities. In contrast, he found Renault to be “quite structured,” operating with a more rigid schedule. This reflection provides a fascinating look into the nuances of Formula 1 team dynamics and how a driver’s personality and work style can align differently with various corporate cultures, impacting their overall experience and performance.

Rally Turkey 2019 Highlights Stages 1-4 (WRC via YouTube)

For fans of rallying, the WRC via YouTube provided exhilarating highlights from Stages 1-4 of Rally Turkey 2019. This video captured the intense action, dramatic crashes, and challenging punctures that are characteristic of one of the World Rally Championship’s toughest events. Rally Turkey is renowned for its harsh, rocky gravel roads, which put immense stress on both cars and drivers. The early stages often set the tone for the event, revealing which teams and drivers are best equipped to handle the brutal conditions and which might fall victim to mechanical failures or costly errors. Such highlights are essential viewing for appreciating the raw power and skill involved in top-tier rally racing.

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Comment of the Day: The F1 Race Format Debate

The discussion surrounding potential changes to the Formula 1 race format for the 2020 F1 season continues to be a hot topic among fans and pundits alike. With teams actively considering various proposals, many express strong opinions on whether such alterations are truly necessary or beneficial for the sport. @Dbradock voiced a sentiment shared by a significant portion of the fanbase, expressing disappointment in the consideration of “gimmicky” changes:

The fact that Ross Brawn is even entertaining this sort of “spice up the show” is really disappointing. I’d have thought he’d be above the sort of gimmicky stuff that Liberty seems hell bent on bringing in.

Soon we’ll be seeing the drivers compete in a pushbike race or a swim leg or have to pair with a celebrity driver because for some reason Liberty thinks it has to have a “show”.

They used to call it the F1 circus back in the early 80’s but now they’re actually trying to turn it in to one.
DB-C90 (@Dbradock)

This passionate comment reflects a deep-seated concern among traditional F1 enthusiasts that Liberty Media, the sport’s commercial rights holder, might be prioritizing entertainment value over the core sporting integrity of Formula 1. Ross Brawn, F1’s Managing Director of Motorsports, has often been seen as a purist, known for his technical acumen and commitment to genuine racing. Therefore, his openness to exploring format changes has surprised some, leading to fears that the sport could veer towards a more artificial, ‘showbiz’ approach.

The proposals under consideration typically involve tweaks to qualifying, sprint races, or reversed grids, all aimed at increasing unpredictability and excitement. However, critics like @Dbradock argue that the inherent drama and challenge of Formula 1 lie in its current format, and that artificial interventions could dilute its prestige. The comment’s evocative comparison to drivers competing in “a pushbike race or a swim leg” highlights the fear of F1 becoming a trivialized spectacle rather than the pinnacle of motorsport. Recalling the “F1 circus” moniker from the early 80s, @Dbradock suggests that what was once a cynical nickname is now becoming a literal aspiration, much to the chagrin of long-time fans who value authentic competition above all else.

Celebrating Milestones: Happy Birthday!

A special shout-out and warm wishes go out to our fellow motorsport enthusiasts celebrating their birthdays today! Happy birthday to Gwenouille and Evered7! We hope you have a fantastic day filled with joy and perhaps some exciting racing action.

If you want a birthday shout-out on RaceFans, simply let us know when yours is via the contact form or by adding your details to our dedicated list here. We love to celebrate with our community!

On This Day in F1 History

• Born on this day in 1918: Georges Berger, a Belgian racing driver who made two starts in Formula 1 races during the 1950s. Berger later tragically died during the gruelling 1967 Marathon de la Route, an epic 84-hour endurance race (three-and-a-half days) held at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife. His participation in such a demanding event highlights the incredible bravery and physical endurance of drivers in that era, often competing in conditions unimaginable by today’s standards.