The two F1 race directors have tested positive for Covid-19

It is an unlikely and unexpected news that Sky Sports revealed a few hours ago. The two new race directors of F1 could be absent from the Miami Grand Prix due to a Covid-19 infection.

In early 2022, following the eventful Abu Dhabi Grand Prix a few weeks prior, where race control had made a mess of things, the FIA decided to replace Michael Masi, who had been in charge since early 2019, with two new faces, Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich. These individuals are supposed to alternate in the role of race director throughout the season.

The information regarding the two positive tests from this week, there is a small chance that one of the two men will test negative before flying to Florida where the race weekend is set to begin on May 6th. But if their tests remained positive, who could replace Freitas and Wittich?

The first name that comes to mind is obviously Masi’s but according to Sky Sports, he wouldn’t be considered as a potential candidate. A more likely option would be to turn to Herbie Blash, who has been Charlie Whiting’s deputy for many years.

Colin Haywood, who was supposed to serve as deputy race director in Miami, is also a serious option. Lastly, the current race director of the DTM, Scott Elkins, could create a surprise, but he has the disadvantage of never having officiated in Formula 1 before.