A former Formula 1 driver and FIA steward in 2021 has made a bold claim, stating that Michael Masi, the former race director, essentially handed the world championship to Max Verstappen. This controversial statement has sparked a debate among fans and experts alike.
Masi's actions during the season finale in Abu Dhabi led to his dismissal by the FIA. He allowed only some lapped drivers to rejoin the lead lap, setting up a rolling restart on the final lap. This decision created a clear path for Verstappen to overtake Lewis Hamilton and secure the championship title.
"The stewards had no say in the matter," said Sullivan, who served as a driver steward in two rounds that year but not the controversial finale. He believed Masi's call left Hamilton vulnerable.
"People were shouting at him, saying they didn't want to finish under yellow as it didn't look good," Sullivan explained. "By waving five cars through, Masi essentially gave Max a chance. According to the rules, all lapped cars should have been allowed to pass, but doing so would have meant finishing the race under yellow."
Masi's decision placed Verstappen directly behind Hamilton, with fresh tyres, while Hamilton's tyres had completed 44 laps. Sullivan believes this move was a clear gift to Verstappen, sealing his world championship victory.
The FIA later confirmed Masi's "human error" in its report, recommending a reduced workload for future race directors. Sullivan sympathized with Masi, acknowledging the pressures of the role and the constant scrutiny from teams and fans.
"Michael had been through 23 races that season, traveling non-stop and facing constant criticism. It's a high-pressure environment, especially in the final five minutes of the season," Sullivan said.
Sullivan, who started 15 grands prix for Tyrrell in 1983, is not alone in stepping down from stewarding. Johnny Herbert also ended his 15-year involvement, citing lobbying within the sport to replace him.
Sullivan described the pressure on officials as "a little toxic," and was unhappy with the restriction on public discussion of his decisions. He emphasized the thoroughness of the stewarding process, with access to in-car cameras, throttle traces, brake pressure data, and driver interviews.
"In my 14 years as a steward, I never felt any bias from anyone. It was straightforward and impartial," he added.
The controversy surrounding Masi's decision continues to divide opinions, leaving fans and experts to debate the fairness of the outcome. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you agree with Sullivan's assessment, or do you have a different perspective? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
