“Who will be the next one to get fired?” asks George Russell after the numerous departures within the FIA

Before the Qatar Grand Prix, two other important figures from the F1 governing body have been dismissed. Janette Tan, deputy director of Formula 2, and Tim Mayer, long-time FIA steward, whose departure was first reported by the BBC.

Janette Tan’s dismissal means that Rui Marques, recently appointed as the director of the F1 race in Las Vegas, following the surprising eviction of Niels Wittich, will have to oversee the F1, F2, and F1 Academy this weekend.

George Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA), expressed concerns about the lack of transparency from the FIA towards the drivers. “While we ask for transparency and consistency, two very important people within the organization are being fired. It’s a return to square one,” said George Russell during a press conference.

We still have no explanation concerning the withdrawal of Niels [Wittich]. Nobody has been informed of Tim [Mayer]’s departure. The first time I heard about the new race director who is also managing the F2 this weekend was through the media.

« Naturally, in any organization, if people leave or if there are changes in personnel, the environment cannot remain stable. Newcomers have to learn the rules, which is very challenging for any team. This must be extremely difficult for everyone within the FIA right now. We would like to have a little more clarity and understand what is happening and know who will be the next to be fired. »

George Russell added: « When we talk about the FIA, there are so many changes, too many changes and too quickly. I think everyone trusts Liberty and Stefano [Domenicali]. He was a driver, he has racing in his blood, and he is doing everything to put the sport in the best possible position. »

« The only concern we all have is that sport is in a very good position right now. Everyone is doing their best for the teams, and Liberty and Stefano have done an excellent job. We just need to ensure that the sport stays in this position or continues to progress. With all these changes, I just hope that it will not have a negative impact. »