Following the controversies that arose at the São Paulo Grand Prix regarding stewarding standards and transparency, the FIA has announced that Niels Wittich has left his role as Formula 1’s race director with immediate effect.
This crucial position will be taken over by Rui Marques once the F1 campaign resumes next weekend in Las Vegas, where Red Bull’s Max Verstappen can wrap up his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship title. The Portuguese official has acted as F2’s and F3’s race director for the past two years.
“The FIA can confirm that Niels Wittich has stepped down from his position as F1 Race Director to pursue new opportunities,” the governing body said on Tuesday.
“Niels has fulfilled his numerous responsibilities as Race Director with professionalism and dedication. We thank him for his commitment and we wish him the best for the future.”
Wittich has served as the F1 race director since the 2022 season, replacing Michael Masi, who was removed from the position following a governing body review into the controversial finish to the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Initially sharing the role with FIA WEC race director Eduardo Freitas, he took sole responsibility after the Japanese Grand Prix.
The 52-year-old also served as a race director in the German DTM championship before stepping up to Formula 1.
“I did not step down,” Wittich said to Motorsport-Magazin and further disclosed that he was fired from the position earlier today, shortly before it was officially announced.
The FIA delivered a “no comment” when asked about Wittich’s words. It is understood that a falling out with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem led to his dismissal.
“Rui Marques will assume the role of Race Director from the Las Vegas Grand Prix,” the FIA announced in the meantime.
“Rui brings a wealth of experience having previously served as track marshal, scrutineer, national and international steward, Deputy Race Director and Race Director in various championships. Most recently, he held the position of Formula 2 and Formula 3 Race Director.”
Along with his appointment as the race director of the second and third tiers of the FIA’s single-seater pyramid, Marques acted as the FIA Deputy Race Director for WTCR. He has worked as a stewarding official in the World Touring Car Championship this year as well.
Marques has also been a committed member of the FIA Volunteers & Officials Commission since 2012.
