F1 Twitter Rages As Controversial Race Director Michael Masi Returns To Paddock

Former F1 race director Michael Masi returned to the F1 paddock after a year’s absence since his firing from the role in 2022. However, this time he hasn’t reappeared as a race director or FIA personnel, but as a visitor.

Masi was spotted on Thursday at Albert Park. F1 journalist Albert Fabrega spotted the 2021 racing chief and was seen chatting with him. He also met with Pierre Gasly and current race director Niels Wittich.

Masi was ousted from his role following the debacle at the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP. His decision played a vital role in crowning Max Verstappen the 2021 F1 champion. The FIA fired him from his role after an investigation into the matter.

 

Masi’s return to the F1 paddock won’t sit well with fans who consider the former race director controversial. This includes a large set of Lewis Hamilton fans and possibly the entire Mercedes team who would certainly not welcome his presence.

Why was Michael Masi Fired?

Michael Masi was appointed as F1’s race director in 2019. Before this, he was the deputy race director for F2 and F3 and the race director for Formula E and DTM.

Masi’s regime presided over some controversial decisions. However, Australia’s most controversial moment was the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP. Both Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen were on level points and the winner of the race would be crowned world champion that season.

He allowed lapped cars between Verstappen and Hamilton to unlap while the safety car ended. This allowed the Dutchman to overtake the penultimate lap and win the championship.

The FIA launched an investigation into the procedures following Mercedes’ protest. Masi was found to be guilty of not following racing procedure and removed from his role as Race Director.

Since then Masi has left the FIA and moved to Australia. He was appointed the independent Chairman of the Supercars Commission in Australia. He was also elected to the Karting Australia board of directors.

F1 Twitter reacts to Masi’s return to F1 Paddock

Michael Masi made his first appearance in the F1 paddock since Abu Dhabi 2021. The Australian was there representing Australian Supercars. He did not address the media. However, his presence caught a lot of attention in the paddock.

Lewis Hamilton fans were clearly not happy seeing Masi back in F1’s paddock. There were a lot tweeted, “F*** off” and “Someone please ask him why he robbed Lewis Hamilton of his title.”

The Aussie would keep his distance from the Toto Wolff and his Mercedes crew. It’s also not clear if Masi will be invited to the main race event as a guest.