Massey has been removed from the position of race director in Formula 1

Michael Massey has resigned as Formula 1 racing director.

Starting with the tests taking place in Barcelona next week, the position will be filled alternately by Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich, with Herbie Blash taking on the role of agent.

The decision comes after the FIA ​​​​investigated what happened at the last race in Abu Dhabi, when Max Ferstappen passed Lewis Hamilton on the last lap to claim a controversial victory and the world title.

Ben Sulawesi specifically stated: “I would like to inform you that a new race control team will be set up from Barcelona and during the testing phase. Niels Wittich and Eduardo Freitas alternate in the role of race director, supported by Herbie Blash as permanent senior advisor.

“Michael Masi, who has done a very demanding job as head of Formula 1 racing for three years and replaces Charlie Whiting, will be offered a new position in the FIA.”

The FIA ​​President also revealed important changes that will take effect from the new season:

• A virtual race control room will be set up to support the race director in decision making. Like the VAR in football, he is placed in one of the FIA ​​offices as an off-track support. He will be in constant contact with the F1 Race Director and will help with the correct application of the regulations using the most modern technological tools.
• In-game communication between the teams and the match manager, previously broadcast live on TV, will be discontinued to protect the match manager from any pressure and allow him to make calm decisions. The opportunity to ask questions to the race director will continue following a clearly defined and non-intrusive procedure.
• The procedures applicable to lap cars behind the safety car will be re-evaluated by the F1 Sports Advisory Committee and presented before the start of the season.