Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion, has stated that he will not seek an explanation from Michael Masi, the former F1 race director who was sacked following the controversial handling of the 2021 season finale in Abu Dhabi [1]. Hamilton lost the championship title to Max Verstappen due to a decision made by Masi to deny lapped cars between Hamilton and Verstappen the opportunity to unlap themselves, which allowed Verstappen to take the lead and win the championship. Despite the FIA confirming that the decision was the result of human error, Hamilton has refused to speak with Masi, stating that there is nothing to say [2].
Masi’s handling of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been a source of controversy and criticism, leading to his dismissal from his role as F1 race director [3]. Hamilton’s refusal to speak with Masi underscores the level of frustration and disappointment he feels over the outcome of the race and its impact on his championship aspirations.
Despite the controversy, the FIA concluded that Masi acted in good faith and that the race results would stand [4]. Hamilton has called for the findings of the FIA’s investigation into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix controversy to be made public [8].