Getting to Know Esteban
January 6, 2016
Esteban Gutiérrez will embark on his third full Formula One season in 2016, but first with Haas F1 Team. The 24-year-old Mexico native has been climbing the motorsports ranks since 2004 and previously served as Scuderia Ferrari's third driver, supporting Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Räikkönen. Read about his racing influence, accomplishments and interests away from the circuit in this Q&A.
What influenced you to pursue a racing career?
EG: My pure passion for competition and driving on the edge. Racing is a lot about optimizing all the tools available and that process makes it very exciting to me. When I was younger I watched the races live and on TV. I could feel incredible excitement through the actions of the drivers on track. That drove me to become a driver that inspires people through competition and my achievements.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment so far?
EG: The greatest achievement I can get is to win, so I would say winning the GP3 series title in 2010 was pretty special. I also have a lot of great races that stand out in my memory.
Did you have any childhood ambitions other than racing?
EG: I always wanted to be a racing driver, but I was also very attracted to business. I had my first business when I was 11 years old selling racing simulators.
What sort of activities do you like to engage in away from the racetrack?
EG: I like golf, cycling and tennis. I also like to listen to music, read books and write new ideas.
What's on your music playlist right now?
EG: Lots of Coldplay music, electronic music and jazz. It all depends on my mood.
How would you summarize your culture?
EG: Interesting, colorful, friendly and fun. I'm very proud of our culture and that's why it's part of my personality.
Have you visited the United States much? If so, what would be your favorite destination in America?
EG: Yes, I have visited many times since I was a child. I've been in many places, but so far my favorite is the mountains in Colorado.
What type of vehicle do you drive at home?
EG: I drive my Giullietta Alfa Romeo and I love it!
What's the most used app on your mobile device?
EG: Notes app on my iPhone. It's where I type all my spontaneous ideas and I also use it to keep my work and life organized.
Your Haas F1 teammate, Romain Grosjean, is quite the cook. What's your level of skill in the kitchen? Should we arrange a cook-off?
EG: Let's do it! My level it's not great, but I enjoy the challenges. I'll cook something with habanero chili and let's see if he can handle it.