FIA Leadership Shake-Up Sparks Controversy

Tim Mayer and Janette Tan have been dismissed from their roles within the FIA, marking significant changes in the organization’s leadership. Mayer, a long-serving steward with over 15 years of experience, reported that he learned of his firing through a text message from the FIA president's assistant. His dismissal is part of a broader management shake-up, following the firing of Niels Wittich, the former F1 race director, and other senior figures.

Mayer raised concerns over the diminishing pool of qualified race officials within the FIA and criticized the decision to appoint Rui Marques as the race director for both Formula 1 and Formula 2, stating that it disrupts traditional roles due to the demanding nature of each position. His firing was reportedly linked to the FIA president's dissatisfaction with his handling of a right of review appeal related to a penalty at the United States Grand Prix, which Mayer felt was a disrespectful way to inform him of his departure after years of service. The dismissals have left the motorsport community questioning the internal dynamics of the FIA and the future stability of its leadership.