The "resignation” by Niels Wittich as race director have been presented as a voluntary choice, but rumours coming from the paddock tell a different story. The German, in fact, has not decided to leave his role, but rather has been pushed towards leaving the FIA, following growing tensions with President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Recent errors in the management of the races and the controversies raised by the teams seem to have aggravated an already delicate situation, leading to a drastic decision when there are only a few races left until the end of the season.
The Backstory of Wittich's "Resignation"
The official FIA statement, released just yesterday, spoke of Wittich's voluntary resignation to "pursue new opportunities". However, Wittich himself denied this version, stating to Motorsport magazine: “I have not resigned as race director”. His words confirm the suspicions of many: it would not be a personal choice, but a real dismissal decided from above. Tensions between Wittich and Ben Sulayem would have intensified, thanks to a series of controversial decisions that have called into question the authority of the race director.
Mistakes and controversies: the case of Brazil
The incidents of the last races, including the chaotic weekend at Interlagos, have probably been the straw that broke the camel's back. In Brazil, the management of the wet track conditions has raised numerous criticisms: some drivers and teams have considered the use of the red flag too late, with the risk of compromising safety. Furthermore, the problems of judgment and the lack of consistency in decisions have fueled tensions, highlighting an increasingly tense relationship between Wittich and the FIA.
A change of direction for the race management
Rui Marques, a former race director in Formula 2 and Formula 3, will replace Wittich starting from the Las Vegas GP. The choice of Marques is indicative of the FIA's desire to bring about change and try to restore trust in race direction. Marques brings significant experience, but will have the difficult task of managing the final races of the season in a climate of high tension, trying to avoid the mistakes that marked Wittich's management.
What future for race direction?
With Wittich's forced departure, the FIA finds itself having to rethink its strategy once again to ensure a solid and coherent race direction. Marques' appointment represents a choice of continuity, but will it be enough to restore order? The next appointments, starting from Las Vegas, will be decisive to understand if this change will bring the desired results or if it will prove to be just another failed attempt to restore balance in Formula 1 race direction.
