P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Komatsu insists no ‘bull***t smokescreen’ over Haas F1 form prediction
During a recent media call, Steiner suggested that the wind tunnel data indicated early on that the VF-24 would be competitive, criticizing the team for downplaying its potential. The car’s performance has surpassed expectations, with both Hulkenberg and Magnussen securing points, propelling Haas to seventh place in the constructors’ standings. Komatsu emphasized that predicting their rivals’ progress was challenging, and he aimed to manage internal expectations to prevent disappointment if the team did not achieve immediate success. Despite initial focus on tire management, the Bahrain test revealed the VF-24’s potential, surpassing wind tunnel predictions. Komatsu acknowledged the unpredictable nature of car performance, explaining that their early estimates were modest compared to the car’s actual capabilities.