F1 Fast Five: Steiner files lawsuit against Haas F1, Adrian Newey's 'gardening leave' explained, and other big updates

Steiner files lawsuit against Haas F1

Guenther Steiner has taken legal action against his former team in Mecklenburg, North Carolina, alleging non-payment of commissions owed under his employment agreement and unauthorized use of his likeness in merchandise and promotional materials after his contract ended. Steiner claims Haas benefited from his reputation, particularly through his presence in the Netflix series "Drive to Survive," and argues that the team's continued use of his image constitutes unauthorized exploitation post-employment termination. He seeks compensation for both the commissions owed and the unauthorized use of his name, image, and likeness.

Click here to read the full article by Jonathan Noble (motorsport.com)

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Adrian Newey's 'gardening leave' explained

Adrian Newey will leave Red Bull Racing in early 2025 without a "gardening leave" clause, allowing him to "immediately join" another Formula 1 team. This means he'll be free from any contractual restrictions and can start work from 2025 onwards. Despite a reported offer from Aston Martin, Newey's discussions with Ferrari's team principal suggest a strong possibility of him joining the iconic Italian team alongside Lewis Hamilton in 2025.

Click here to read the full article by James Dielhenn (crash.net)

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Aston Martin reports Q1 sales decline

In the first quarter, Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings Plc saw a 26% decrease in luxury car sales due to phasing out its older Vantage sports car model, which resulted in a 10% revenue drop and a 34% decline in adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Despite missing analysts' estimates, the company maintained its yearly guidance. Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll attributed the decline to the conclusion of production and delivery of core models as the company prepares to introduce new versions of the Vantage and DBX707 SUV.

Click here to read the full article by Jamie Nimmo (fortune.com)

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Piastri joins McLaren's coral restoration project

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Join Oscar Piastri in the Whitsundays as he learns about McLaren's partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. In 2023, McLaren launched its Climate Contribution Programme, which is dedicated to supporting projects that remove carbon from the atmosphere and restore ecosystems. Together with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and McLaren Accelerator, McLaren will use its expertise for large-scale coral restoration.

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Netflix releases Ayrton Senna miniseries trailer

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Netflix will soon air a new miniseries based on the life of Formula 1 champion Ayrton Senna. Simply called Senna, the show is a six-episode series slated to air later this year. Netflix hasn't announced an exact release date, aside from later in 2024. The teaser trailer shows glimpses of the Formula 1 racer's life, set against his emotional victory at the 1991 Brazilian Grand Prix.