Guenther Steiner Open to F1 Return — But Only for the Right Project

Steiner leaves the door open

Guenther Steiner has made it clear that a return to Formula 1 remains possible, but only if an opportunity offers more than a conventional job. The former Haas team principal said he would come back “if there is a project I like”, underlining that the challenge itself would be more important than the title attached to it.

Asked on the Up to Speed podcast whether he would return, Steiner drew a firm distinction between joining a team and helping to build something with a clear sense of purpose.

A challenge matters more than a title

Steiner’s career has been shaped by projects across multiple areas of motorsport, from rallying to Formula 1. He is currently the owner of the Tech3 MotoGP team, a role that represents his first experience in the championship. His willingness to consider another F1 venture reflects the same appetite for challenge that defined his previous work.

“It needs to be something which really challenges me,” Steiner said. “A project means something you can shape yourself what to do. Not just going in, because I don’t live by a job title. I couldn’t care less about the job title.”

That approach is particularly relevant as new teams and major organisational projects continue to attract attention in Formula 1. The foundations of a new entry can take years to establish, as shown by Cadillac’s continuing effort to build its F1 infrastructure.

Steiner also pointed to his move into television after Haas as evidence that he remains willing to try unfamiliar challenges. He admitted that he wanted to become as good as David Coulthard on screen, though he joked that he had not achieved that yet.

“I will show you”

Steiner recalled being told that starting a new Formula 1 team was impossible. His response was characteristic: “Okay, I will show you!” He believes launching an F1 team was easier than matching Coulthard’s television ability.

For now, Steiner has not committed to a return. His message, however, is unambiguous: Formula 1 could interest him again, but only if the opportunity gives him something substantial to shape and a challenge worth accepting.