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 sinceCharlie [Whiting]'s unexpected and tragic passing in Melbourne 2019," he commented. "Having worked on various projects around the world with the Federation andits member clubs for over a decade prior to my appointment, I have now decidedto leave the organisation and relocate back to Australia to be closer to myfamily and friends. "I am proud to have worked in partnership for many years with the variousFIA member clubs, Formula 1 Group, the competitors, promoters and circuitoperators and my colleagues and team internally at the FIA. "I will always treasure these lifelong relationships and friendships that Ihave 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 CharlieWhiting for identifying me as a future successor in 2018, a role that I waslooking forward to shadowing and learning from Charlie for many years prior tohis shock passing," he added. "I also pass on my sincere appreciation for the support and guidance duringmy tenure of the former FIA president Jean Todt, Stefano Domenicali, and mydedicated FIA Single Seater team. "I extend my appreciation to the tens of thousands of dedicated volunteersand officials that allow motorsport to happen each and every day around theworld, as the safety of the competitors and officials has always remained myhighest priority. "Thank you to the FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem and his presidentialteam for their personal support since their appointment and I wish them thebest for the future. "The personal support of my family, friends, and colleagues globally duringthis journey and particularly in the last few months can only be described asoverwhelming and something that I will forever cherish."
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