Sebastian Vettel defends Michael Masi and hopes he stays on as race director

Four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel believes Michael Masi should remain in his role as FIA race director.

Masi’s position is under intense scrutiny after he was accused of bending the rules to allow Max Verstappen the chance to beat Lewis Hamilton to the title following a late safety car period in last season’s finale.

Masi’s supporters have been few and far between since the race in Abu Dhabi on December 12.

But Vettel, a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, has thrown his weight behind the under-fire Australian.

“For Michael, it has been a pity,” said Vettel, 34. “There are two interests clashing – one is the sport and the other is the show. I don’t care so much about the show because I look at is a sport and from a competitive point of view.

“Obviously, it is not the easiest to be in the shoes of the referee, or Michael’s shoes, but he has done a great job, particularly after filling in for [former race director] Charlie Whiting who died so suddenly.

“Michael has been very focused and determined to do a good job. I don’t know what is in store for his future but I hope he sticks around because overall he has done a very good job.

“There was a lot of controversy surrounding the last race but that shouldn’t be, because if you look at the bigger picture he has done really well.

“The main thing moving forward is that there is clarity in these situations so no further questions are asked.”

In the final stages of the Abu Dhabi race Masi ordered only the lapped cars between Hamilton and second-placed Verstappen through, providing the Dutchman, on fresh tyres, a shot at passing Hamilton – who was on old rubber.

Verstappen took the victory with Hamilton claiming the result was “manipulated”. Hamilton, 37, is