A Controversial Decision and Its Aftermath
The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains one of the most contentious races in Formula 1 history, with its outcome sparking debates that continue to this day. The race, which decided the world championship between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, saw a series of controversial decisions by then-race director Michael Masi. However, Masi has recently received unexpected support from his successor, Niels Wittich, who has defended his actions.
The Race That Changed Everything
Going into the final race of the season, both Verstappen and Hamilton were tied on points, meaning the winner would take the title unless both finished outside the top 10. Hamilton led Verstappen by over 11 seconds when the race was neutralised by the safety car due to a crash involving Nicholas Latifi and Mick Schumacher. This incident raised concerns about potential tyre changes or a red flag, prompting Mercedes to keep Hamilton on used hard tyres to preserve track position.
Verstappen, on the other hand, took the opportunity to switch to new soft tyres and remained in second place. On lap 57 of 58, Masi directed the five lapped cars separating Hamilton and Verstappen to unlap themselves, followed by an immediate pit stop for the safety car. This allowed Verstappen to overtake Hamilton and secure his first world title.
The Rules and the Dispute
Masi’s decision was later scrutinized under F1’s sporting regulations, particularly Article 48.12, which outlined the procedures for lapped cars during a safety car period. According to the rule, lapped cars should be allowed to overtake once the safety car had returned to the pits at the end of the following lap. If this had occurred, Hamilton would have won the championship.
Wittich, who served as race director from 2022 to 2024, has since spoken out in support of Masi, stating that the former race director acted within his authority. “From my point of view, Michael didn’t do that much wrong,” he said. “The regulations didn’t strictly define everything. What he did was within his authority. He had a certain level of discretion in how to deploy the safety car.”
The Context of the Decision
Wittich emphasized that the teams, FIA, and Formula 1 had all agreed to finish races under green flag conditions whenever possible. Red flags were only considered in cases of danger to personnel or a blocked track, which was not applicable in Abu Dhabi. “Nobody wanted a race ending behind the safety car,” he added.
He also highlighted that Masi’s decision to allow lapped cars to unlap themselves was within the rules at the time. “He essentially did what everyone had agreed upon: create one final racing lap. It produced a spectacular finish, an overtake, a winner and a runner-up. It could have gone the other way just as easily. That’s sport.”
The Aftermath and Criticism
Despite Wittich’s defense, the incident led to widespread criticism of Masi, with many fans and officials questioning his judgment. The FIA eventually attributed the situation to a “human error” and removed Masi from his position. He faced significant backlash, including death threats, before leaving the federation altogether.
Wittich expressed disappointment with the lack of support from the FIA for Masi. “What was really disappointing – for me and many colleagues – was the lack of support from the FIA for Michael. That’s something that needs to be clearly criticised. Everyone knew that in extreme situations, you’d be left on your own.”
He noted that under previous leadership, such as Charlie Whiting and Max Mosley, there had been more backing for race directors. “That support wasn’t there anymore. It still isn’t. That’s one of the reasons I’m no longer a race director in Formula 1.”
The Legacy of the Incident
The Abu Dhabi race remains a pivotal moment in Formula 1 history, with its legacy continuing to influence discussions around race management and regulation. While some argue that the decision was unfair, others believe it was a necessary gamble to ensure a dramatic and memorable finish.
