Haas brought updates to the US Grand Prix, which appeared to advance the car in the competitive midfield hierarchy and, most importantly, put them ahead of their championship rivals RB as they scored points in the Sprint and GP itself.
The pace of the car was further solidified during the Mexico GP Grand Prix qualifying, a much different circuit.
Both drivers managed to advance to Q3, with Nico Hülkenberg at P10 after a small mistake on his last lap, and Kevin Magnussen best of the rest in P7, beating Pierre Gasly by 0.006s.
The Dane expressed satisfaction with his strong qualifying result, particularly on a track known for limited overtaking opportunities due to the altitude, although he is wary of Piastri and Pérez coming through on Sunday.
He also noted the team’s surprise at the car’s pace as Mexico has been extremely difficult for them in the past.
“Yeah, I think it’s nice. We put a good weekend together in Austin, except for the race, with the strategy, but it was strong.
“We were thinking it was going to be a one-off track specific thing, come to a very different track here and it’s good again.
“Very happy with that and happy with P7, hoping we can stay ahead of the midfield tomorrow.
“There’s a couple of good cars [Piastri and Pérez] who fell out of Q1 who are probably going to make it through, but if we stay ahead of the midfield there should be some points.”
The fight for P6 in the Constructors’ Championship remains very close as 2 points cover Haas and RB, with both RBs not advancing to Q3 after Tsunoda’s crash ended Q2 early.
Magnussen emphasised how crucial the Austin upgrade is in close-fought situations, where minor gains can impact positions significantly.
“We had the car in a good spot in Austin and it’s a different track here but we have been able to just take the same car and put it on track.
“It’s high downforce. It’s showing of course that the upgrade has at least not been a bad thing, and I think it’s given us a little bit, which is good.
“In this tight midfield if we even gain half a tenth it’s going to make a big difference, so I think we’re in a good spot.”
Thinking ahead to the race, Magnussen remained wary of the unpredictability of the very long run down to turn 1, and the possibility of contact.
“It’s a long day tomorrow and nothing is given, it’s a long stretch down to Turn 1 after the start here. A lot of things can happen.
“So we’ve got to keep it together and hopefully get some points.”
