Jenson Button has offered a defence for Michael Masi over Abu Dhabi

Former Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button has said that changes should be made over how teams contact the Race Director and that Michael Masi was in a very difficult position in Abu Dhabi, which led him to the controversial call he made over the unlapping of cars behind the Safety Car.

The saga is ongoing with everyone interested in the sport waiting to hear just what the FIA are going to do in terms of a potential Race Director restructure and where that leaves Masi in terms of his role.

In recent days, though, we’ve seen some try and offer a defence for Masi and appreciate that over the course of that entire race in Abu Dhabi, the pressure was unprecedented – especially with two teams in Red Bull and Mercedes lobbying for decisions.

Indeed, Button said that needs to be reviewed to Sky Sports:

“Maybe that needs to be changed, maybe they shouldn’t have their opinions voiced to Masi and maybe that’s a way forward so Masi can make the decision on his own.

“I think after the race the teams can go and talk to Masi but during the race I think it’s wrong. There’s so much emotion coming from the teams.

“For Masi it’s difficult because there’s so much adrenaline and a lot of people watching what he does.

“I think it’s better that the stewards can discuss it between themselves and come up with a decision, and obviously have the rulebook in front of them as well.”