Steiner is suing Haas. It is about unpaid commissions and the use of his likeness – F1sport.cz

Guenther Steiner decided to sue Haas, for whom he worked until the beginning of this year. He owes him money and used his photo.

Shortly after the New Year, it was surprisingly announced that Guenther Steiner had quit as Haas team boss. His contract expired and was not renewed.

According to Autosport, Guenther Steiner has taken legal action against his former team over money he says is owed to him, as well as Haas using his likeness for promotional materials.

The lawsuit was filed in North Carolina, where Haas is based. In it, Steiner alleges that the team failed to pay him the commissions he was owed over several years, which was in violation of the employment contract he had. Specifically, it is supposed to be commissions for the years 2021 to 2023, probably related to the fact that he managed to get sponsors for the team.

In addition, he claims that Haas continues to sell merchandise bearing his name and likeness and uses it on his official website. This is being done without his permission, and in addition, he is not being paid the royalties he says he is entitled to.

Court documents state: “Haas F1 has decided not to renew Mr. Steiner’s employment contract. It was his right. However, Haas F1 did what it has no right to do and refused to pay Mr. Steiner [začerněná částka]which belongs to him according to his employment contract.”

“After years of receiving the benefits of Mr. Steiner’s reputation, experience and deep connections within the sport, Haas F1 cannot deny Mr. Steiner the benefits he has earned.”

He also argues with Netflix

Guenther Steiner has become one of the stars of the Netflix series Drive to Survive. He also argues this in court documents.

“Haas F1 has been featured frequently in the series and Mr. Steiner’s presence in the series has brought more and more fans to Haas F1. This exposure was extremely valuable to the fledgling racing team, especially as it sought additional sources of income to support itself in the traditionally expensive environment of Formula 1.”