On the day of the official presentation of the Ferrari F1-75, the FIA announces a decision that was in the air after the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that handed the world title to Max Verstappen: Michael Masi is no longer Race Director of Formula 1 .
This is by no means a bolt from the blue: since last December, in fact, a profound process of reviewing and verifying what happened in that of Yas Marina was underway, with some decisions taken by the Australian referee that made us turn up our noses to fans and enthusiasts of this sport. And not just them, of course.
In this short video released through the official profiles of the Automobile Federation, the newly elected FIA President Mohamed bin Sulayem communicated the welcome to Masi, as well as a series of new regulations that will touch the nerves left uncovered by the 2021 season of Formula 1.
“During the F1 Commission meeting in London, I presented part of my plan to take the category referee system one step further. I wanted a thorough reform and analysis of race direction, and I found full support from the CEO of Formula 1 and the team principals, “says bin Sulayem.
“First of all, to assist the Clerk of the Course in his decisions, a Virtual Race Control Room will be created which, like the VAR in football, will be a backup for all FIA officials and will be connected in real time with the race direction, helping to apply the regulation with all the best and most modern technologies available “.
“Secondly, the radio communications broadcast live on TV during the races will be removed to protect the Clerk of the Course from any possible pressure, so that he can reach his own decisions in a peaceful manner. It will be possible to ask questions to the Clerk of the Course. race, according to a clear and well-defined schematic process “.
Michael Masi, FIA
Photo by: Erik Junius
“Thirdly, however, the splitting procedures during the Safety Car will be redefined by the F1 Sporting Advisoring Committee and will be presented to the F1 Commission before the start of the 2022 season.”
“Ultimately, I want to inform you that a new race management team will be presented at the Barcelona tests: Niels Wittich – former DTM Race Director – and Eduardo Freitas – WEC Race Director – will alternate as Race Director and will be assisted by Herbie Blash as Permanent Senior Counselor “.
“Michael Masi, who has held the position for three challenging seasons succeeding Charlie Withing, will be offered an internal role at the FIA.”
“Without referees there is no sport: respecting and supporting those who have this task is the essence of the FIA. This explains the reason for crucial changes such as these, necessary to legitimize the expectations of drivers, teams, manufacturers, organizers and obviously some fans “, concludes bin Sulayem.
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