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Niels Wittich, the former FIA race director, reignites the Abu Dhabi 2021 controversy, defending Michael Masi as a scapegoat in the scandal. This revelation sheds light on the internal dynamics of Formula 1's governance and the pressures faced by race officials.
Wittich, who took over after Masi's dismissal, claims that Masi executed the rules within a flawed system that lacked clarity and support. He argues that the infamous finale—where Max Verstappen overtook Lewis Hamilton under contentious circumstances—was not merely a "human error" but rather a decision made to adhere to a collective agreement among teams and the FIA to finish races under green flag conditions.
“The regulations didn’t strictly define everything,” Wittich states, asserting Masi had the discretion to make his call. He emphasizes that the push for a thrilling conclusion was a shared goal, one that resulted in a dramatic race finish.
Moreover, Wittich critiques the FIA’s handling of Masi's exit, calling it a betrayal. He highlights the lack of backing for Masi amid public backlash, suggesting the governing body prioritized image over support. This insight into the FIA's culture raises questions about accountability and the pressures of officiating at the highest level of motorsport.
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