Our verdict on Haas' new car + Wolff's reaction to Hamilton’s exit
Feb 2, 2024
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The podcast discusses Haas' new car design for the 2024 F1 season and explores Lewis Hamilton's potential move to Ferrari. Toto Wolff's reaction to Hamilton's exit is shared. They also highlight changes in beam wing approach and the importance of effective communication and collaboration within a team.
The podcast discusses the design changes made to the Haas VF-24, with a focus on the side pods and repositioning of the side impact structures.
Toto Wolff reveals that Lewis Hamilton informed him about his decision to potentially join Ferrari just a day before it became public, sparking speculation and anticipation about the potential challenge for Hamilton and the impact on the F1 landscape.
Deep dives
Haas car concept and Toto Wolff's comments on Hamilton to Ferrari
The podcast discusses the new Haas car and its design, specifically focusing on the changes made to the side pods and the repositioning of the side impact structures. It also touches on Toto Wolff's comments about Lewis Hamilton potentially joining Ferrari in 2025, revealing that Hamilton informed Wolff of his decision just a day before it became public. The podcast speculates on the potential impact of Hamilton's move to Ferrari and discusses the excitement surrounding this potential challenge.
The importance of managing expectations and team structure
The podcast emphasizes the importance of managing expectations for Haas this season, noting that they don't expect immediate success with the new car. It highlights the changes in team structure, such as the appointment of a performance director and the focus on improving communication between departments. The podcast mentions the need to address previous issues with wheel wake and steering lock to improve the overall performance and stability of the car. It provides optimism that Haas can make progress throughout the season, even if they may not challenge for top positions.
Analyzing the car's technical aspects and potential improvements
The podcast delves into the technical aspects of the Haas car, focusing on the repositioning of the headrest intake and the potential benefits of improved cooling. It discusses the importance of managing the airflow around the wheels and the challenges of maintaining downforce while steering. The podcast highlights the team's efforts to address previous issues, such as the unpredictability of downforce reduction during steering lock. It concludes by pointing out that Haas can make progress by maximizing their resources and continuing to develop the car throughout the season.
Looking ahead and the possibility of being a competitive team
The podcast acknowledges that Haas may face challenges this season but suggests that it's not inevitable for them to finish last. It mentions the need for Haas to be a competitive team within their capabilities and highlights the importance of maximizing their performance against other teams like Williams and Alfa Romeo. The podcast mentions the potential for Haas to secure points finishes and the opportunity to be in the mix during races. It concludes by expressing hope for Haas to progress and achieve more competitiveness throughout the season.
Edd Straw joins Mark Hughes and former Jordan and Jaguar technical director Gary Anderson to pore over images of the first F1 car to break cover in 2024: The Haas VF-24. They discuss the design direction the American team have taken with their new machine, and whether any of the changes made are likely to propel them up the grid, after a disappointing 2023. Before that, we bring you the latest on Lewis Hamilton's blockbuster move to Ferrari for 2025, with Edd and Mark reporting back the thoughts of Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, who faced some tough questions about the Briton's exit and who might replace him in his first briefing with the media since the switch was announced.