Masi breaks silence with statement over FIA departure

Michael Masi has issued a statement following confirmation that he has left the FIA.

Former F1 Race Director Masi was replaced in his role in February following months of in-depth internal investigations over the controversial events of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

It was announced at the time that Masi would be offered a new position within the FIA amid changes at the top level of the sport's race governance.

However, on Tuesday, it was confirmed that Masi had left the governing body altogether.

Masi shares reasons for FIA exit

Now, in a statement issued to Australian website Speedcafe, Masi offered some thoughts on his time at the FIA and the reasons behind his ultimate departure.

"It has been a pleasure and honour representing the FIA as the Single Seater Sporting Director and FIA Formula 1 Race Director and Safety Delegate since Charlie [Whiting]'s unexpected and tragic passing in Melbourne 2019," he commented.

"Having worked on various projects around the world with the Federation and its member clubs for over a decade prior to my appointment, I have now decided to leave the organisation and relocate back to Australia to be closer to my family and friends.

"I am proud to have worked in partnership for many years with the various FIA member clubs, Formula 1 Group, the competitors, promoters and circuit operators and my colleagues and team internally at the FIA.

"I will always treasure these lifelong relationships and friendships that I have developed throughout my journey to date."

Masi thanks the FIA, friends and family

Masi also took a moment to pay tribute to Whiting and several other key figures at the FIA, along with family and friends for the support they have shown during a challenging period.

"In particular, I am eternally grateful to Herbie Blash and the late Charlie Whiting for identifying me as a future successor in 2018, a role that I was looking forward to shadowing and learning from Charlie for many years prior to his shock passing," he added.

"I also pass on my sincere appreciation for the support and guidance during my tenure of the former FIA president Jean Todt, Stefano Domenicali, and my dedicated FIA Single Seater team.

"I extend my appreciation to the tens of thousands of dedicated volunteers and officials that allow motorsport to happen each and every day around the world, as the safety of the competitors and officials has always remained my highest priority.

"Thank you to the FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem and his presidential team for their personal support since their appointment and I wish them the best for the future.

"The personal support of my family, friends, and colleagues globally during this journey and particularly in the last few months can only be described as overwhelming and something that I will forever cherish."