Haas has boldly unveiled its initial car design for the 2024 Formula 1 season, marking the first time the American team enters a season without long-serving team boss Guenther Steiner. The livery design for the VF-24 maintains the black-and-white theme from 2023 but features a subtle evolution, notably incorporating more black colouring, particularly in the nosecone area and at the top of the sidepods. The car proudly displays a large USA flag on the nosecone, emphasising Haas's American identity.
The VF-24 is set to debut at a Silverstone shakedown on February 11. Ayao Komatsu, the new team boss succeeding Steiner, described the car as a more-realised version of the concept introduced with the VF-23's big upgrade at the 2023 United States Grand Prix. However, Komatsu acknowledges that the Austin-spec VF-23, considered a "preview" for the VF-24, faced physical limitations in design.
Despite the VF-24 being an improvement, Komatsu issues a candid admission, stating, "Out of the gates in Bahrain, I still think we’re going to be towards the back of the grid, if not last." He attributes this to the impact of the Austin upgrade, explaining, "During the time it took to make the Austin-spec car, we had to stop resources to the VF-24 for two months, and that’s performance we could’ve found there."
The departure of tech director Simone Resta, along with Steiner, has led to internal promotions, with former Ferrari man Andrea De Zordo taking over as chief designer. Komatsu expresses satisfaction with De Zordo's appointment, praising his communication skills and engagement. The team will fill De Zordo's previous role internally and has introduced a new position of performance director, filled by ex-Ferrari engineer Damien Brayshaw.
In summary, Haas faces challenges in the upcoming season but remains optimistic about the VF-24's potential, recognising the need for strategic internal appointments to drive performance improvements.
