Written by member: Goose
As is the norm with our segment here. I try to get all divisions covered. This time is no exception and it’s a big one. None other than title chasing StunningDave
So Dave. Let’s get cracking
We’re 4 races into the new season and you’re sitting second in Division One—how would you sum up your season so far and the fight at the top?
I’d say the season has gone about as expected for me. Sitting second in Division One is a solid position at this stage, it reflects the kind of consistency I was aiming for coming into the year. I’ve generally been towards the top end of the grid, so it’s good to see that translating into results early on.
That said, the fight at the top is already taking shape. Goose has come out very strong and based on current form looks like the one to beat. There’s definitely a bit of a gap to close but it’s still early in the season and plenty can change over the next few rounds.
You’ve stepped into a championship-winning car in the Haas this season—does that bring added pressure or confidence?
Honestly, not really. With all the recent F1 rule changes, it’s effectively been a clean slate for everyone, so whatever the team achieved before doesn’t carry the same weight into this season. On top of that, the drop in funding has changed the landscape quite a bit, so expectations internally were fairly measured coming in.
If anything, I’d say I’m exceeding those expectations at the moment. Sitting where I am gives me confidence more than pressure, and it shows we’re making the most of what we’ve got so far.
How aware are you of the legacy you’re carrying with this team, and does it influence how you approach each race weekend?
Not massively, if I’m honest. Again, with the regulation changes it feels like a reset across the board, so I’m more focused on what we’re doing now rather than what’s come before. Of course, you’re aware of it in the background, but it doesn’t really change my approach each weekend is about maximizing what we’ve got in the current circumstances.
From your perspective, what separates you and the driver currently leading the standings?
I think outright pace between us can be quite close, but consistency has probably been the difference so far. I’ve had a bit of bad luck as well, Monza cost me points with an unavoidable incident, and earlier in the season I had a clutch issue that left me starting from the back. Those things add up over a few races.
Have there been any races this season where you felt you left points on the table?
Really just the ones I mentioned. Outside of those, I don’t have too many complaints with how things have gone.
How do you balance consistency versus going for big results when chasing a title?
It’s about reading the situation. If you’ve had a poor qualifying or you’re at a track where overtaking is tough, sometimes you just have to take the points on offer. Overpushing in those situations can easily end in zero points, and too many of those will kill your championship chances.
Do you approach races differently now that you’re in a championship-winning car?
No, not really. Like I said, with the rule changes the expectations are different, so my approach hasn’t changed much.
What’s been your strongest track this season, and where do you feel you still need to improve?
Australia stands out, it was straightforward, no drama, and a solid second place. That’s the kind of weekend you want more of. There’s always room to improve across the board, but mainly it’s about putting full weekends together consistently.
How important has racecraft been compared to outright pace in your campaign so far?
It’s been huge. In two of the four races I’ve been down in P20 on lap one, so working through the field, getting strategy right, and knowing when to push has been just as important as raw pace.
Do you feel the target is on Haas’ back from the rest of the grid week in, week out?
I think everyone’s got a bit of a target on their back to be honest, especially with how aggressive some of the racing can get! It's like the bumpers in blackpool.
How do you handle the mental side of a title fight, especially when margins are so tight?
It’s about focusing on yourself. You can’t worry too much about what others are doing or you’ll end up overdriving and making mistakes. Consistency and a bit of luck go a long way—if I can get both, I’ll be in the mix.
How do you see the next few races—any tracks you’re particularly looking forward to?
Azerbaijan should be interesting. I’m really looking forward to Austria as well—it’s always a great track to race on. Monaco… I might give that one a miss and take a holiday!
Looking ahead, what will it take over the remaining races to turn second place into a championship win?
I’ll need things to swing a bit, Goose having a couple of off weekends would definitely help, whether that’s a mistake in qualifying or something going wrong in the race. From my side, it’s about staying consistent and racing smart.
If you were to sum up your mindset going into the second half of the season, what would it be?
Win
Perfect mate. Good luck for the remainder of the season