F1 watches the political turmoil in the US with concern.

F1 watches the political turmoil in the US with concern.

      "Everyone is likely in a waiting phase."

      Formula 1 is cautiously observing the developments in U.S. politics. Recently, Haas Automation, whose founder Gene Haas also owns the Haas F1 team, expressed significant concerns regarding extensive international tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. The U.S. government later implemented a 90-day delay, lowering the baseline tariff to 10 percent, but tariffs on Chinese imports surged to a staggering 145 percent. Donald Trump has indicated that an extension of the current 90-day delay, set to expire in July, is "unlikely." With Formula 1 increasingly invested in the United States, other teams, in addition to Haas, are voicing worries about the implications for both their operations and the global economy as a whole.

      Particular apprehension has been directed toward the Racing Bulls team, which has two American naming sponsors, Visa and Cash App. "Honestly, for us, there hasn't been a significant impact so far," stated team CEO Peter Bayer. "We have U.S.-based sponsors who are carefully assessing the situation, but we don’t anticipate any major effects at this moment, primarily due to the considerable uncertainty regarding what will actually happen with these tariffs, including if and how they will be implemented."

      "I believe everyone is likely in a waiting phase, but currently, there are no major effects." Another team with a significant American sponsor is Ferrari, which is backed by HP. Team principal Frederic Vasseur remarked, "Certainly, we have U.S. sponsors, but we also rely on many U.S. suppliers, some of whom are sourcing raw materials from China. This is undoubtedly creating some uncertainty about the future. However, we are maintaining open communication with them and are working to anticipate any potential issues. But yes, it could be a complicated situation."

      Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell also weighed in, stating, "The global economy is experiencing a turbulent period. We are keeping an eye on things and trying to respond to the current situation, but I expect things will stabilize in the future."

      Some within Formula 1 have noted other repercussions from the latest Trump administration ahead of this weekend's grand prix in Miami. In the past, a work visa was sufficient for entering the country to work at the grand prix, but U.S. authorities are now unexpectedly requiring the submission of personal data and detailed information regarding travel intentions.

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F1 watches the political turmoil in the US with concern.

Formula 1 is closely monitoring the political events in the United States. Recently, Haas Automation, founded by Gene Haas, who also owns the Haas (...)