Gene Haas Foundation Donates to MoneyGram Haas F1 Team’s Hospital Gown Initiative

MoneyGram Haas F1 Team drivers Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon visited Texas Children’s Hospital in Austin to deliver the bespoke gowns, spend time with patients and families, and give thanks to the key workers providing critical care. Building LEGO Speed Champions MoneyGram Haas F1 Team race cars and surprising patients with a ward visit kicked off the team’s activities to celebrate 10 seasons of competing in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, and the team’s home race in the United States.

This second generation of hospital gown for children combines the functionality of a traditional gown with the familiarity of a classic T-shirt, offering comfort and accessibility while creating a sense of normalcy for kids in hospitals. This innovation is specifically designed to enhance the overall patient experience by making dressing easier for individuals with disabilities, limited mobility, or those recovering from surgery.

Starlight Children’s Foundation has worked with America’s F1 Team for four years, providing happiness to hospitalized children and their families, working with over 800 children’s hospitals across America. Since its inception, the charity has positively impacted over 21 million children and continues to work tirelessly to bring joy and comfort to those receiving treatment.

“It was a very moving visit to the Texas Children’s Hospital, made possible thanks to Starlight Children’s Foundation,” shared Ollie Bearman, driver for MoneyGram Haas F1 Team. “It was a pleasure to meet and speak with kids and their families, and to put smiles on their faces. It was a great way to start our home race week, and after having some families visit us on track, it will definitely motivate us to do our absolute best this weekend.”

“Visiting the Texas Children’s Hospital was a truly touching experience, and I'm grateful to the team and the Starlight Children’s Foundation for making it happen,” added Esteban Ocon, driver for MoneyGram Haas F1 Team. “Meeting the kids and their families, sharing conversations, and bringing a bit of joy to their day was incredibly special. It was a very meaningful way to kick off our home race week here in Austin. We will do our best to get a good result this weekend, and to dedicate it to those brave kids and their families.”

“Starlight’s partnership with the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team shows the incredible impact happiness and hope can have for children facing difficult medical journeys. We’re deeply grateful to work alongside them in creating unforgettable experiences for kids at Texas Children’s Hospital North Austin,” said Adam Garone, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation. “The collaboration with the team has helped us transform the hospital experience for kids, and we’re excited to continue bringing the fun of racing to young patients.”

To learn more about Starlight's vital work, as well as donate, please visit: https://www.starlight.org/haasf1team