Until the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine, Nikita Mazepin seemed untouchable at Haas because of his father’s millions in sponsorship. However, team boss Günther Steiner has now cleared up some myths about the position of the shot driver.
“The whole topic was boiled too hot from the outside. As a father, Mazepin’s father had a right to information, but he had no say,” said the 57-year-old in an interview with “sports1” clear.
Steiner also made it clear that oligarch Dmitry Arkadievich Mazepin’s funds were less important to the team than previously assumed.
“I have to say it in this clear way. Mazepin’s sponsorship helped, but the main part was paid for by someone else: namely the owner, Gene Haas,” says the team boss.
Mazepin was hired by the US racing team alongside Mick Schumacher last season. But he was rarely able to prove his skills. Most of the time, the Russian finished the races in last place.
Nevertheless, the team only parted with the driver when the pressure from the Russian attack on the Ukrainians became too great. Nikita and his father are both on the EU sanctions list.
His successor Kevin Magnussen then scored points in his first race and gave Haas a new self-image.
New contract for Mick Schumacher at Haas
Steiner explained that the fact that Magnussen is now an experienced pilot in the team is also good for Mick Schumacher. “He now has a reference, he can read from the data what the other is doing. If you have an experienced professor sitting next to you, it’s easier and also much faster. I think he missed that last season .”
Although Mick was mostly clearly beaten by his team-mate in the first races of the season, Steiner wants to give the youngster the necessary time. On the subject of contract extensions, he has not yet been lured out of his reserve.
“We still have to be patient. We’ve only completed four races. As everyone knows, I’m in no hurry. Mick is a Ferrari driver. He has a contract with them first, and then with me “It’s up to Ferrari. It’s no secret that Ferrari can choose one of our two drivers,” said Steiner.