The Rise of Haas (from F1: Chequered Flag)

The Rise of Haas (from F1: Chequered Flag)

From Test Match Special by BBC Radio 5 Live

April 17, 2026 · 23 min

About this episode

The episode explores the success of Haas F1 and features an interview with Team Principal Ayao Komatsu.

We’re bringing you something different today which we think you’ll like - an episode from the BBC’s Formula 1 podcast, F1: Chequered Flag. With the Formula 1 season on an enforced break, the Chequered Flag team pay a visit to the home of Haas F1 with the team currently sitting fourth in the F1 constructors’ standings. So how are F1’s smallest team performing so well? Izzy Hammond and Harry Benjamin investigate. They visit the team’s HQ to speak with Team Principal Ayao Komatsu about their success. Plus, just how did Ollie Bearman escape from that huge accident in Japan unharmed and what are the team’s ambitions for the future? Izzy and Harry also answer your F1 hot takes. Could Gianpiero Lambiase become McLaren’s Team Principal in the future, following the announcement of his switch from Red Bull in 2028? And which driver is the most likely to be a reality TV star? F1 returns next for the Miami Grand Prix at the start of May, with live commentary across the 5 Live network and BBC Sounds. If you enjoy this episode of F1: Chequered Flag, find more by searching ‘F1’ on BBC Sounds, and make sure to subscribe to get the latest episode every week.

People in this episode

Hosts: Izzy Hammond, Harry Benjamin

Guest: Ayao Komatsu

Topics covered

  • Formula 1
  • Haas F1
  • team performance
  • F1 hot takes
  • accidents
  • future ambitions

Keywords

  • Haas F1
  • Formula 1
  • Izzy Hammond
  • Harry Benjamin
  • Ayao Komatsu
  • F1 hot takes
  • Gianpiero Lambiase
  • Ollie Bearman
  • Miami Grand Prix

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Haas F1, McLaren, Red Bull

Places: Japan, Miami

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