Niels Wittich, who has served as Formula One race director since 2022, has stepped down from his position with immediate effect, the FIA confirmed on Tuesday. Wittich, who stepped into the role following the departure of Australian Michael Masi, will be replaced by Rui Marques starting from the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix. According to the FIA's statement, Wittich, a German with extensive experience in motorsport officiating, has left to "pursue new opportunities."
The governing body expressed gratitude for Wittich’s tenure, acknowledging his professionalism and dedication in fulfilling his multifaceted responsibilities. "Niels has fulfilled his numerous responsibilities as race director with professionalism and dedication," the FIA stated. "We thank him for his commitment and we wish him the best for the future." Wittich’s departure comes at a critical juncture, with only three races left in the 2024 season, including the debut Las Vegas Grand Prix—a much-anticipated event expected to deliver high-stakes excitement.
Taking over the role is Rui Marques, a Portuguese official who has a proven track record as an international steward and race director for the Formula Two and Formula Three championships. Marques' experience at lower levels of single-seater racing equips him with a deep understanding of the demands of race management at the highest tier of motorsport. His promotion to Formula One race director comes as the championship approaches its climax, with both the drivers' and constructors' titles yet to be decided.
The upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix holds particular significance as Red Bull's Max Verstappen is on the cusp of securing his fourth consecutive drivers' championship title. Marques will be under considerable pressure to ensure the smooth operation of this high-profile race, which is part of a broader effort by Formula One to expand its presence in the United States.
Wittich's exit marks another shift in the FIA's ongoing efforts to maintain consistency and transparency in race officiating after the controversial end to the 2021 season that led to Masi’s departure. The introduction of Marques may signal a fresh approach and an effort to build on the procedural improvements made during Wittich’s term. As the season nears its conclusion, the transition in race direction will be closely monitored by teams, drivers, and fans, all eager to see how it impacts the final three rounds of what has been an intense and competitive season.
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