Three-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen criticizes recent change in race direction: a strange decision by the FIA.
The FIA surprised the Formula 1 world by replacing Niels Wittich, race director, just three races before the end of the 2024 season. This change, announced after the Brazilian Grand Prix, was greeted with perplexity by several stakeholders from the paddock, including Max Verstappen.
Niels Wittich, in post since the start of the season, was dismissed from his position to be replaced by Rui Marques, former race director in F2 and F3. The latter will now take responsibility for the final three races, including those at demanding circuits like Las Vegas and Abu Dhabi.
Max Verstappen, three-time world champion and title candidate for a fourth crown, shared his astonishment at this change at a press conference.
“It’s a bit strange to do this so late in the season, with three races to go. I saw the information and moved on, but it’s surprising.” he declared.
Criticisms on the management of previous races
Verstappen's dissatisfaction with race direction is not new. At the Brazilian Grand Prix, he expressed his annoyance at decisions that he considered too slow, particularly during qualifying where the deployment of the red flag was delayed.
“I thought that in Brazil, there was clearly room to improve. But it always remains special to have to deal with a new race director” added the Dutchman.
A challenge for the new race director
For Verstappen, introducing a new manager so late in the season could pose problems. Rui Marques, although with his experience in F2 and F3, will have little time to adapt to the particular dynamics of Formula 1.
“Normally, these changes are made after the season, with a period of adaptation during winter testing. There, he will have to quickly find his feet. But the decision has been made, and we will have to deal with it” a conclu Verstappen.
As the season draws to a close, this reshuffle could impact the management of the remaining races, an element which will be closely scrutinized by the teams and drivers.
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