P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The FIA confirmed shortly after the Brazilian Grand Prix that Niels Wittich had departed his role as F1 race director.
Several F1 drivers expressed surprise at Niels Wittich’s sudden departure as the sport’s race director, with Wittich stating he was released from his position rather than choosing to step down. Rui Marquez was promoted by the FIA to replace Wittich for the rest of the season, with Fernando Alonso pledging full support for the new director. Drivers such as Charles Leclerc and Alex Albon believed the situation could have been handled more carefully, expressing shock at the timing of the change. Some drivers, like George Russell and Oscar Piastri, felt blindsided by the announcement and emphasized the importance of being kept informed by the FIA regarding such decisions. Despite the change, drivers like Pierre Gasly and Lance Stroll maintained that it would not alter their racing approach.
