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Former F1 race director Niels Wittich claims that he did not resign from his post but was fired with immediate effect. Earlier today, the FIA announced that he would be stepping down from his position as Race Director.
Wittich first became the Formula 1 race director as a replacement for Michael Masi post the 2021 season showdown in Abu Dhabi. He shared his role with Eduardo Freitas in 2022 and took it on full-time in 2023. The FIA today released a statement revealing that he was stepping down from his position.
"The FIA can confirm that Niels Wittich has stepped down from his position as F1 Race Director to pursue new opportunities," the statement read. Niels has fulfilled his numerous responsibilities as Race Director with professionalism and dedication. We thank him for his commitment and we wish him the best for the future."
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However, Wittich told the media that he had not resigned from the position, with reports claiming that he had been informed of his removal shortly before the FIA made the public announcement.
"I have not resigned," Wittich claimed.
Rui Marques is set to replace him and will work as the race director for the upcoming race in Las Vegas. Marques currently serves as the race director for the junior Formula 2 and Formula 3 series.
All F1 teams to unveil 2025 liveries at special event in London
Formula 1 is set to have a season launch party for the first time as F1 will head into its 75th year of racing. The event will be held at The O2 in London on February 18, 2025. All of the ten teams on the grid will also reveal their liveries for the 2025 season during the event, along with their team principals and 20 drivers.
"For the first time we will bring together our fans, all 20 superstars of our sport and some very special guests to officially kick off our new season and mark our 75th year of racing," F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said.
"With 2025 set to be a classic season following all the drama so far for 2024, this is a fantastic opportunity for fans of all ages to experience up-close the incredible entertainment spectacle that is Formula 1," he added.
It is set to be an interactive launch event during which guests can expect interviews with key figures of the sport such as team principals and the drivers.
