FIA’s Michael Masi answers Lewis Hamilton’s “money talks” comment

© LAT Images for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd

After the sham Belgian Grand Prix, FIA race director Michael Masi gave a dubious answer to Lewis Hamilton’s claim that the ‘race’ was ‘restarted’ because of money.

After the ‘race’ Lewis Hamilton suggested that the FIA decided to allow two laps under the Safety Car, so that Formula 1 can fulfil its formal obligations towards the promoters, the fans, the broadcasters etc.

Race Director Michael Masi disputes this with a pretty dubious explanation.

“No, it was to see what the conditions were like,” said Masi.

“We were in constant contact with our official weather provider and there was a window that looked like it was provided there.

“We have the requirement to give a 10-minute warning to everyone.  It was like, let’s try and see if we can find that window.

“A number of the teams said the same thing. They saw that window and could see exactly what we were trying to do to find that weather window.


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“Then the weather came in and got the better of us again.”

While some called for the race to be postponed and moved to Monday, Masi says this was not possible.

“There is no ability to postpone the race until Monday. Obviously, from the FIA perspective and jointly with Formula 1, safety is paramount for drivers, teams and all of the spectators.

“We gave every available opportunity within the rulebook, within the provisions of the International Sporting Code to give us the best opportunity to help us complete the race.

“The list would be pages long between organisers, everyone here, all of us. There is just no ability to postpone until the following day.”

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