Michael Masi scoops praise from team bosses
Michael Masi, Formula 1's race director, unexpectedly took over the job after Charlie Whiting passed away in the build-up to the Australian Grand Prix weekend. Masi has now been in the position for six months and team bosses seem very satisfied with his work so far.
Masi hasn't had it easy. The initial take over was a big leap for him, as well as challenges cropping up at different circuits across the year. Mattia Binotto, Franz Tost and Claire Williams all gave their assessment.
"Michael is doing very well since Australia. If you look at the first few races I see no mistakes or major mistakes from a director's perspective. It has not been easy for him. With Australia as his first, he had no advice and he had to step right into the role. Since then he has done his job well and I am satisfied," Binotto said.
"Michael is doing an excellent job because it was not easy for him. He had to follow in great footsteps and in this position he is doing his job in the best possible way. To date, he has not made any wrong decisions, so we are quite happy with him," Tost said.
Claire Williams, who was also present at the press conference, had little to add to this and clearly stated that he was also satisfied with Masi's work.