Drivers and paddock surprised by Niels Wittich's departure

Arriving in Las Vegas, a hot topic awaited the drivers: the departure of Niels Wittich, until then race director and who officiated for the last time in Brazil on November 3rd. In its press release published on November 12th, the FIA ​​explained that the German " has left his position as race director of the F1 in order to pursue new opportunities ».

Quickly, various sources in the paddock suggested that it was not a voluntary departure on the part of Niels Wittich but rather a dismissal, against a backdrop of tension. "[On] learned from multiple sources that the relationship between Wittich and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem was also somewhat conflicted., » explained then Sky Sports F1's Craig Slater.

"We were not aware"

Of course, the media day in Las Vegas this Wednesday was the first opportunity to get the drivers' first opinions. A trend of surprise quickly emerged regarding the departure of the now ex-race director who will be replaced this weekend by Rui Marques, and this for the last three rounds of the 2024 campaign.

« We were completely unaware, explained pilot George Russell Mercedes and president of the pilots' association (GPDA). It was a bit of a surprise, for everyone. We pilots often feel like we are the last to find out about this kind of information. And when it directly concerns us, it would be good to be kept informed and have an idea of ​​the decisions that are being made. »

Max Verstappen, who has recently been at the heart of the somewhat controversial decisions of the race direction, accepted the FIA's decision, but questioned it, particularly because of the timing. It's a bit strange to do that with three races to go., adds the Dutchman. Whether you are positive or negative about certain things does not matter (…) But it is still strange to have to deal with a different race director.

Usually, when you want to change race director, you do it after the season, which leaves a little time for the [new] to get into the rhythm. Then there's the pre-season testing and you get a little bit more familiar with your role. But let's see how it goes. They've made their decision and we have to deal with it. »

Same story on the side of Charles Leclerc. " We were all surprised, the latter concedes. Beyond talking about the decision, which we can all have our own opinions on, I think the timing is a bit surprising, to do it so late in the year, at such a crucial time. It probably could have been handled better.. » This is unlikely to improve the popularity rating of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, who has been challenged by drivers in recent times.

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