Grosjean: 'Drivers' confidence boosted by Haas' positive mentality'

Romain Grosjean believes team owner Gene Haas' attitude and support has been instrumental in sustaining the US outfit's confidence level and that of its drivers.

A member of the Haas F1 Team since its inception and arrival in F1 in 2016, Grosjean - a man who knows all about going through thick and thin - says the American entrepreneur, who typically remains out of the limelight on race weekends, commends his drivers in the good times but, more importantly, also provides the necessary motivational boost in the difficult times.

"You try not to lose your self-confidence over the years," said Grosjean.

"I was lucky to have a very good car in 2013 [at Lotus] allowing me a lot of podiums and I've known what a very bad car is as well.

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"You have to believe in yourself and a team like Haas helps you. When Gene says 'Our drivers are better than our car', it's the best thing a team boss can say.

"It shows a lot of respect for the drivers and it always boosts your confidence."

A newcomer to Grand Prix racing in 2016, Haas arrived with a wealth of racing experience however, having learned his trade as a team owner in the uncompromising world of NASCAR.

"Gene appreciates the effort everyone puts in," adds Grosjean.

"He knows from NASCAR that racing is complicated and he is very intelligent, he can see a lot what's happening.

"He is here to support as much as he can, rather than just putting pressure saying 'I want to see my name up there because I've been putting a lot of money into it'.

"He's got a very positive mentality and he pushes everyone to get the best out of himself."

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