F1 News
'The decision of Masi was just insane!'
- GPblog.com
Michael Masi's decision during the final lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has divided the racing world considerably. Former F1 driver Hans-Joachim Stuck has harsh words for the race director.
Even before Max Verstappen crossed the line and crowned himself world champion, many drivers and teams were already surprised about Michael Masi's decision. Afterwards, the discussion about the role of the race director and the choice between entertainment and sport has intensified even more.
Former F1-driver Hans-Joachim Stuck is also not happy with the state of affairs. The German states that Max Verstappen 'owes the title to Masi' in an interview with Eurosport. Without the choice to let lapped cars pass and then immediately resume the race, 'Verstappen would never be able to pass Lewis Hamilton'. Stuck has no problem with the race being resumed, but feels it should have been done much sooner.
Time for change at the FIA
The German former driver argues that it is high time for change at the FIA. "This mess is not worthy of a world championship fight in Formula 1! Just like in Saudi Arabia, ad hoc decisions have been taken in Abu Dhabi that are simply insane."
Despite the criticism of Masi and the FIA, Stuck does not think Verstappen is an unjust champion. In fact, he thinks the Dutchman was the "best driver", who deserved to win.