The name Michael Masi remains indelibly linked to one of the most dramatic and contentious moments in Formula 1 history. The Australian official's decisions as race director during the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix finale directly decided the world championship, sparking a firestorm that ultimately led to his exit from the sport's pinnacle. Now, years on, he has rebuilt his career back home in Australia, stepping away from the intense global spotlight of F1.
The Abu Dhabi Controversy and FIA Exit
Michael Masi served as Formula 1's race director and safety delegate for approximately three years, having taken on the immense responsibility following the sudden death of the revered Charlie Whiting in 2019. His tenure, however, was defined by the explosive climax to the 2021 season at the Yas Marina Circuit.
In that fateful race, Masi's interpretation of the safety car restart rules on the final lap allowed Max Verstappen a clear shot at overtaking Lewis Hamilton for the lead, handing the Dutch driver his first world title. The decision triggered immediate and fierce debate about the consistency of regulations.
Following an internal FIA investigation, Masi was removed from his position as F1 race director in February 2022. Although offered an alternative role within the governing body, he chose to leave the FIA entirely in July of that year, closing a tumultuous chapter at the heart of global motorsport.
Returning Home to Australia
Upon departing the FIA, Masi relocated to his native Australia, seeking proximity to family and a fresh professional start. The move also represented a physical and mental distance from the intense scrutiny he faced, which he later revealed included severe personal attacks.
"There were some dark days," Masi confessed to News Corp. "Absolutely, I felt like I was the most hated man in the world. I got death threats. People saying they were going to come after me and my family." His candid remarks highlighted the significant emotional and mental health toll exacted by the aftermath of the Abu Dhabi race.
A New Role in Familiar Territory
Masi's primary post-F1 career move came swiftly. In September 2022, he was appointed as the independent Chairman of the Supercars Commission, the body that sets the technical and sporting regulations for Australia's premier touring car series.
This role marked a return to familiar surroundings, as Masi had previously worked as the deputy race director for the Supercars championship for several years before joining the FIA in 2018. The position is influential yet less exposed than his former F1 role, allowing him to contribute to the sport away from the relentless glare of the international media.
Demonstrating a continued commitment to grassroots motorsport, Masi also took on a director position on the board of Karting Australia, the nation's sole FIA-recognised karting organisation. This dual involvement shows his dedication to shaping the future of Australian racing from the ground up.
While the spectre of Abu Dhabi will always be part of his story, Michael Masi has successfully navigated a path back into the motorsport fold. His journey from the pinnacle of global racing controversy to a key regulatory role in Australian series underscores a career dedicated to the sport, albeit now conducted far from the F1 paddock's intense pressure.
