Haas suffer blow as key technical figure departs F1 team

Haas has been struck with a blow ahead of the new Formula 1campaign as it is reported that its Technical Director Simone Restahas left the team. Motorsport Italy reports that the 53-year-old islikely to either return to Ferrari or take up a position at theStake team. It has been suggested that Resta was not aligned withthe development scheme implemented by team owner Gene Haas. TheUS-owned squad endured a difficult 2022 campaign as it fell to thebottom of the Constructors' Championship, scoring just 12 points.The VF-23 car often displayed strong pace across one lap inqualifying but its race-day form saw it slip backwards as it wasunable to unlock competitive long-run speed. A major car upgradewas introduced at the US Grand Prix as it hoped to make gains inthe order while also boosting its understanding of its 2024challenger. However it failed to improve its immediate pace, withNico Hulkenberg even reverting back to the old-spec car towards theend of the season. Resta joined Haas for the 2021 season as Haasand Ferrari looked to form closer ties amid their long-termrelationship that commenced when Haas joined the F1 grid in 2016.