F1 race director Michael Masi has been sacked. The FIA president had previously hinted that there would be some structural changes to the governing body. The sacking of Masi came on the eve of the Mercedes livery launch. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff mentioned that it is a good move by the FIA.

The Austrian had been one of the main critics of the former race director. He had publicly spoken out after the controversial ending of the season finale in Abu Dhabi last year.

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Toto Wolff gives his take on Michael Masi’s sacking

As reported by Sky Sports, the Mercedes team principal mentioned that the role of a race director is difficult. He also mentioned that 7-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and his reported retirement had nothing to do with the decision.

“The right steps have been taken and I am optimistic about these changes. The role of the director of the race is not easy and now we have two experienced people. In recent years we have had a freestyle interpretation of the rules. I am pleased with this solution, “ said Wolff.

He revealed that Lewis Hamilton had no influence on the sacking of Masi. “No, absolutely not. I think it was for Lewis himself to decide how can I could digest the events from Abu Dhabi and the same for the team, and I think we moved on.

“I have known Lewis for such a long time and I wasn’t [concerned about him quitting], but obviously this has had such an impact on him. When everything you do is about fairness and justice and then that happens to you, it is quite difficult, I understand, to cope with that,” added the Mercedes team boss.

Although it is easily understandable that Hamilton would not influence such a decision, the timing of the sack was quite convenient. To announce such a major decision regarding the sport just the day before the launch raises some eyebrows.

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