Michael Masi axed as Formula One race director after Abu Dhabi GP controversy

Michael Masi has been dropped as Formula One race director after the controversial Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that saw Max Vertappen pip Lewis Hamilton for the world title.

The news was confirmed by FIA president Mohammed bin Sulayem two months and five days after last season’s finale at Yas Marina Circuit.

Masi's future was thrown into doubt after he altered the safety car procedure to allow for a last lap of racing that cost Mercedes' Hamilton a record eighth title and handed a first to Red Bull's Verstappen.

Masi decided only the lapped cars between race-leading Hamilton and second-placed rival Verstappen had to get out of the way after a late-race crash, allowing Verstappen to pass the Briton on the last lap, which left the British driver saying the race was “manipulated” in Red Bull's favour.

A report into the failings at Abu Dhabi will be published at the season-opening race in Bahrain on March 19.

Masi, offered a new position within the FIA, will be replaced by Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich in a total restructure of race control.

FIA president Bin Sulayem said: “I would like to inform you that a new race management team will be put in place starting in Barcelona for the test session.

“Niels Wittich and Eduardo Freitas will act alternatively as race director, assisted by Herbie Blash as permanent senior adviser.

“Michael Masi, who accomplished a very challenging job for three years as Formula One race director following Charlie Whiting, will be offered a new position within the FIA.”

Bin Sulayem, elected as president just days after the Abu Dhabi race, also revealed the sport will use a Video Assistant Referee, similar to the one seen in football, and said communication between the pit wall and the