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Disgraced ex-F1 race director Michael Masi lands new motorsport role
Following his removal from the F1 role in 2022, ex-F1 race director Michael Masi has taken on a new position in New Zealand as event director for the Repco NextGen NZ Championship under Motorsport New Zealand. Masi, aged 47, will oversee national series operations and ensure safe, fair, and professional race delivery. He expressed excitement to contribute to New Zealand’s rich motorsport heritage and continue developing the sport. His appointment is seen as a crucial step in modernizing and enhancing New Zealand’s motorsport capabilities for long-term success. Masi was previously removed as F1 race director after a controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix due to errors in applying rules that affected the world championship outcome between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. He faced pressure from Mercedes and Red Bull, leading to his replacement and the implementation of rotating race directors ultimately due to human error. Masi also disclosed receiving death threats post-controversy.
