Tim Mayer: FIA Running Out of Qualified Race Directors

Tim Mayer a senior steward for 15 years claims the FIA is “running out of people” for key roles following a series of high-profile departures. Mayer, who the FIA fired this week, expressed disbelief over the loss of Janette Tan, the deputy Formula 2 race director, who also recently left the FIA.

Tan’s departure raises the total number of senior figures to leave in just over two weeks to four, following the dismissals of former F1 race director Niels Wittich and FIA compliance officer Paolo Basarri. Tan was originally slated to take over as F2 race director for the final two rounds of the season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

Instead, the FIA has asked Rui Marques to handle both F1 and F2, a move that breaks convention. Mayer criticized the decision, noting the immense pressure on Marques, who now faces the heavy workload of managing both races. Mayer, who also holds “platinum-level” FIA race director certification, warned that the FIA struggles to fill these key positions.

He explained that race directors carry immense responsibility and face a demanding role. He suggested the FIA isn’t doing enough to retain experienced personnel, resulting in a shortage of qualified race directors. Mayer revealed that FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem took offense to his involvement in a right-of-review hearing for the Circuit of the Americas.

This led to a conflict of interest and ultimately resulted in Mayer’s firing. Tim Mayer felt the FIA had treated him unfairly, and after years of service, he found the decision to terminate him via text message disrespectful. The FIA’s ongoing struggle with staffing and leadership issues could impact its operations, especially as it faces increasing scrutiny.