Charlie Whiting race director role for Australia GP filled by Michael Masi

Michael Masi will assume the role of race director for the Australian Grand Prix following the untimely death of Charlie Whiting, the FIA has confirmed.

Whiting passed away on Thursday at the age of 66, leading to a flow of tributes to the well-liked official who played an integral part in increasing the overall safety standards of the sport.

Masi, who had previously been race director of the Australian Supercars series, will take his place in Melbourne, having also served as a steward in F1 in the past, at the 2018 Chinese Grand Prix.

He has also been appointed as Safety Director and Permanent Starter for the race this Sunday.

The experienced Masi had previously been confirmed in the position of race director for the Formula 2 and Formula 3 series for the season ahead, and has also operated within Formula E.

Reports suggest that all members of the paddock will wear black armbands this weekend in tribute to Whiting.

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