Former FIA race director Niels Wittich has dismissed the motorsports governing body’s explanation for his resignation.
Former F1 race director Niels Wittich has denied the FIA’s allegations that he resigned from his position, claiming instead that he was fired by the world racing governing organization.
The FIA confirmed Wittich’s shocking resignation on Tuesday, stating that he had resigned and announcing Rui Marques as his replacement, beginning with the Las Vegas Grand Prix next weekend.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the sport’s governing body said: “The FIA can announce that Niels Wittich has stepped aside from his post as F1 Race Director to seek new opportunities.
“Niels has handled his various tasks as Race Director with expertise and diligence. We appreciate his commitment and wish him the best for the future.
According to Austrian site Motorsport-Magazin, Wittich challenges the FIA’s phrasing and events surrounding his resignation. According to the article, Wittich insisted on continuing to serve as F1 race director.
When asked why he had decided to leave his position, Wittich was cited as stating, “I have not resigned.” According to the site, he was told of his dismissal soon before the FIA’s statement was made from its headquarters in Geneva.
Wittich joined Eduardo Freitas for the 2022 season after Michael Masi left following the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix controversy.
Freitas stepped down from his position following the Japanese Grand Prix that year, leaving Wittich as the only race director going forward. With just three races remaining in the 2024 season, he has also left the FIA.
While it is unclear whether Wittich was fired by the FIA or resigned himself, one thing is certain: the 52-year-old will no longer be in command of Formula One races.
Wittich joined Eduardo Freitas for the 2022 season after Michael Masi left following the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix controversy.
Freitas stepped down from his position following the Japanese Grand Prix that year, leaving Wittich as the only race director going forward. With just three races remaining in the 2024 season, he has also left the FIA.
While it is unclear whether Wittich was fired by the FIA or resigned himself, one thing is certain: the 52-year-old will no longer be in command of Formula One races.
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