Michael Masi Makes a Dramatic Return to Motorsport in New Zealand – Will He Redeem Himself?
In a shocking turn of events, former FIA Race Director Michael Masi has resurfaced in the motorsport world, taking the reins as event director for the Repco NextGen NZ Championship in New Zealand. This appointment comes four years after his controversial ousting from Formula 1, following the chaotic 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that forever changed the landscape of racing governance.
Masi, who stepped into the high-pressure role of FIA Race Director in 2019 after the untimely death of the legendary Charlie Whiting, faced unprecedented scrutiny during his tenure. His final race was nothing short of a scandal, with decisions that sparked outrage among fans and accusations of bias in favor of certain teams. The fallout from that infamous race led to death threats and a tumultuous departure from the FIA, leaving many to wonder if he would ever return to the sport.
Now, as he embarks on this new chapter in New Zealand, Masi is set to oversee all race officials and operations for the NextGen NZ Championship. His mission? To elevate the standards of motorsport in the region and ensure the seamless execution of events. Motorsport New Zealand is on a mission to enhance the national motorsport scene, and they believe Masi’s wealth of experience will be crucial in implementing best practices and refining regulations.
“I’m very much looking forward to working in partnership with, and supporting MotorSport New Zealand, Toyota New Zealand, and the Repco NextGen NZ Championship,” Masi declared, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the sport’s growth. “New Zealand has an abundantly rich and proud heritage in the sport,” he added, hinting at a desire to restore his reputation through this new role.
Deborah Day, president of the country’s ASN, emphasized the significance of Masi’s involvement, stating, “His experience at the highest levels of global motorsport will help us sharpen our systems, elevate our championships, and support our officials.” This is not just a job; it’s a pivotal moment for New Zealand motorsport as they celebrate 70 years as an FIA member in 2026, and Masi’s role could be a game-changer.
Masi’s first challenge will come in January as he prepares for the Allied Petroleum Hampton Downs International, followed by several key events throughout the season. His arrival marks a significant shift for a man who has remained largely under the radar since his FIA exit.
But will Masi be able to shake off the stigma of his controversial past? The motorsport community is watching closely, eager to see if he can turn his experience into a positive force for the NextGen NZ Championship. As he steps into this new role, the question looms large: can Michael Masi redeem himself and prove that he still has what it takes to lead in the high-stakes world of motorsport? Only time will tell if this new beginning will result in a triumphant comeback or if the shadows of the past will continue to haunt him.
