Grosjean 'fine' with Steiner pillorying in Netflix series

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Haas' Romain Grosjean says he was unperturbed by the negative image projected of him by team boss Guenther Steiner in the Netflix's 'Drive to Survive' documentary on F1.

The Haas outfit is showcased in several instances throughout the 10-part series which chronicles the 2018 season, with Grosjean's painful run of mishaps in the first half of the season a focal point.

The film's production crews and their fly-on-the-wall approach put the spotlight on Steiner who vents his frustrations at his driver and questions his ability to perform.

Haas' Steiner didn't want to hold back for Netflix

On the eve of the Frenchman's home race, Haas hosted a team dinner where Grosjean was conspicuously absent.

"Romain is not here," says Steiner in a scenes in which he welcomes his team members.

"Maybe he is not here because he doesn’t have any points. Or I didn’t invite him because he doesn’t deserve any food," sarcastically jokes the Italian.

©WRI2

After witnessing the film, Grosjean admitted he held no grudge against his boss, insisting Steiner had simply called events as he saw them.

"I know Gunther, and he’s calling a cat a cat," he told Motorsport.com.

"So that’s fine by me. We’ve had discussions and we’ve never lied to each other. He always tell the truth and that’s something I appreciate.

"Honestly, if you are telling me to judge my first half of the season myself, I wouldn't have been tender myself. So fine by me.

"I think I changed the direction of the boat in the second part, and hopefully he did say some nice things in the second part. I didn't hear, but hopefully. If not, I'll just f****** get him!"

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.