Seidl satisfied with the new race direction

After the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021, with the events and controversies that we know about, the FIA was obligated to make changes. The most noticeable change is obviously the dismissal of Michael Masi from his position as race director, replaced by two men, Niels Wittich and Eduardo Freitas.

If Freitas will be officiating for the first time this weekend in Barcelona, Wittich has already had five races to prove his worth. And it has to be said that the German has imposed his law, with a striking example being the case of fireproof jewelry and clothing, whose verification has been strengthened in recent weeks.

Andreas Seidl, McLaren’s director, expressed satisfaction with the work done by the FIA since these changes. I don’t want to compare it with the past, because from our point of view, we were satisfied with the exchange or working relationship we had with the previous FIA configurations as well. But in my opinion, the new configuration with Niels, and also with Eduardo, has had a very good start in this new era of Formula 1.

Seidl also praised the work of Niels Wittich directly. « Niels is very clear when it comes to applying the rules. He is also quite direct in making clear what he expects, and that is what I personally like. At the same time, he is always available for dialogue and constructive feedback if you think things need to be reevaluated. From this point of view, when I look at how these first races unfolded, I think we are in a good position. »