Michael Masi makes return in Supercars role

Former F1 race director Michael Masi has made his return to motorsport as chair of the Supercars Commission.

Michael Masi will make his return to motorsport as Chair of the Supercars Commission. (Motorsport Australia)

Masi will start the role immediately, replacing Neil Crompton who held the position temporarily until earlier this year.

“I view this role as continuing the amazing work already done by Neil and the Commission to lead Supercars into a brand new era with the introduction of the Gen3 Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang,” said Masi.

“I’m very proud to have been appointed to this role and look forward to working with the key stakeholders in the sport to ensure the future is an exciting one for our teams, partners, sponsors and most importantly the fans.”

The Australian was part of Supercars before his moving up to Formula 1, serving as Super 2 Race Director before being promoted to Supercars Championship Deputy Race Director.

In 2018 he joined Formula 1 as Deputy Race Director under Charlie Whiting, before Whiting passed away in Melbourne on the eve of the 2019 Australian Grand Prix.

Masi served as F1 Race Director for three seasons until being forced out of the role under the controversy of the 2021 season finale.

As part of a raft of changes to F1 stewarding, Masi took the brunt of the fallout, with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem announcing his departure from the role in February.

Masi formally departed the organisation in July, relocating to Australia "to be closer to his family and take on new challenges," according to an FIA statement.

Australian officials have welcomed Masi back to the sport.

“I am delighted the Commission has appointed Michael to this important position for the sport,” said Supercars CEO Shane Howard.

“The role of Commission Chair needs to be an independent, strong and robust leader."

"They need to effectively manage the Commission and its process, broker compromise where required and be a good communicator."

“Michael has worked closely and industriously with Supercars team owners, principals and stakeholders for many years and returns to Australia with vast experience and leadership which will be invaluable in guiding our sport into the future."