The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, Formula One’s governing body, have confirmed the appointment of Niels Wittich as Race Director. The former race director of the DTM series will care our these duties at the 2022 season opener in Bahrain, which takes place this weekend.
Niels Wittich is one of two new Race Directors installed for the 2022 Formula 1 campaign, along with Eduardo Freitas, after Michael Masi was removed from the position a few weeks ago due to the controversial events at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the way he managed the final laps of the race at the Yas Marina circuit.
As of the new season, the pair will share responsibilities on alternating Grand Prix weekends and they will also benefit from the experience of returning advisor Herbie Blash and a new Virtual Race Control Room.
Niels Wittich has been called up first and will take control of proceedings at the Bahrain International Circuit this weekend.
Who is new FIA Race Director Wittich?
Niels Wittich is the former race director of the DTM series. He resigned from his position down at the end of 2021. He was already planning to move to F1 full-time in 2022 as Michael Masi’s assistant. Previously, the German had served as race director for the FIA F2 and F3 championships, as well as assisting the F1 race director at select events.
Niel Wittich is born and brought up in Germany by his parents. No information regarding his birth year is available but according to sources, his age is around 40-45 years. He is a married man with a family and household.
Niel Wittich and Freitas Eduardo will split the role across the 2022 Formula One season, which for the moment includes 22 events but is expected to complete its 23-race calendar after the cancellation of the Russian Grand Prix.
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