The FIA has announced a surprise departure of F1 Race Director Niels Wittich from as early as Las Vegas GP, with Rui Marques to take his place.
Having taken over in a shared F1 Race Director role with Eduardo Freitas after the 2021 season, Wittich became the sole in the role from 2023 onward. He has been the mainstay from the FIA side for considerable period until the surprise step.
Unlike their predecessor Michael Masi, there was not huge cry about the work done by Wittich albeit there were certain elements to it which didn’t seem as huge. The FIA has stated that he has stepped down to pursue new opportunities.
It remains to be seen where and what role he has opted for. In his place, the FIA has roped in Marques in the role with considerable experience. He held the race director role in the F1’s feeder championships Formula 2 (F2) and Formula 3 (F3).
He will start his F1 Race Director role from as early as Las Vegas GP onward. It is unclear as of now what pushed Wittich to take a new opportunity. “The FIA can confirm that Niels Wittich has stepped down from his position as F1 Race Director to pursue new opportunities,” a statement said.
“Niels has fulfilled his numerous responsibilities as Race Director with professionalism and dedication. We thank him for his commitment and we wish him the best for the future. Rui Marques will assume the role of Race Director from the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
“Rui brings a wealth of experience having previously served as track marshal, scrutineer, national and international steward, Deputy Race Director and Race Director in various championships. Most recently, he held the position of Formula 2 and Formula 3 Race Director.”
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