The American team was invited to open the trading session in New York, Ayao Komatsu described the experience as "fantastic," the team seeks to consolidate itself as the best of the midfield ahead of Red Bull. Bearman and Ocon, ready for the sprint.
The Miami Grand Prix week started for Haas in an unusual way; the American team did not begin preparations at the circuit, but rather in the financial heart of the country. The team's top brass was invited to the New York Stock Exchange to ring the bell that marks the start of trading, an honor usually reserved for major figures in industry, commerce, or finance.
The event, held on Monday morning, had a double meaning for the team founded by Gene Haas; it not only represented institutional recognition but also an opportunity to remind the American public that Cadillac is not the only Formula 1 team with the American flag. Haas has been representing the stars and stripes in the paddock for a decade.
"It was a fantastic way to start the week by taking part in such a prestigious event," declared Ayao Komatsu, the team principal. The Japanese executive highlighted the presence of partners from Toyota Gazoo Racing and executives from Toyota Motor North America: "Seeing our huge banner placed in front of the New York Stock Exchange on Wall Street was incredible; without a doubt, it was impossible to miss it," he added.
The ceremony was attended by drivers Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon. Although Gene Haas was absent from the official photos, Komatsu announced that the team expects to receive all its partners in Miami over the weekend.
Haas' stock market moment coincides with an excellent sporting moment; the team is currently the best team in the "second division" of the grid, even ahead of a Red Bull that has started the season well below expectations. Bearman, for his part, has established himself as the leader among drivers outside the top teams.
"I'm looking forward to racing again, it's been a long break, and Miami is a very fun track," said Bearman. The Briton acknowledged that the sprint format represents an additional challenge with the new regulations: "We're discovering new things in every session, so I'm eager to explore the nuances and challenges of Miami," he added.
Ocon, for his part, focused on the weather conditions: "Miami is probably the first race of the year that is going to be very hot and humid, something we don't know yet with the new cars. We've worked a lot on the simulator beforehand, but there are things you discover in FP1 during a clean session. The car has performed quite well, so we hope to get some points," the Frenchman explained.