Michael Masi will take on a key role in New Zealand motorsport from 2026 – why the former Formula 1 race director was chosen
Former Formula 1 race director Michael Masi is returning to international motorsport in a new role. As announced by MotorSport New Zealand, the Australian will take on the role of Event Director in the Repco NextGen NZ Championship from the 2026 season.
This means that Masi will take on a role that is closer to his former position at the FIA than any of his previous engagements since leaving Formula 1.
In his new position, he will be responsible for several national racing series in New Zealand. His main focus will be on the “safe, fair, and professional running of each individual event,” according to the announcement.
In addition, he will work closely with MotorSport New Zealand to observe existing rules, regulations, and operational procedures in practice and make technical recommendations based on this.
The aim is to ensure that these processes continue to comply with “best practice” and remain fit for purpose. Masi will also support the association in setting up a new training and development program for officials.
New job shortly after resignation
Masi’s appointment to the NZ Championship comes just three months after his resignation as chairman of the Supercars Commission, a position he had held since mid-2022. At the same time, the 47-year-old remains a board member of Karting Australia and Southern Australian Motorsport.
Looking ahead to his new role, Masi emphasizes the special significance of the location: “New Zealand has an exceptionally rich and proud motorsport heritage.”
“I am very much looking forward to working in partnership with MotorSport New Zealand, Toyota New Zealand, and the Repco NextGen NZ Championship to support them in continuously developing and improving the sport for all participants and stakeholders,” said the Australian.
Masi was Formula 1 race director at the FIA from 2019 to 2021. After the controversial final stages of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he came under heavy criticism, particularly for his handling of the late safety car phase and several procedural decisions that affected the title fight.
As a result, he was relieved of his position in 2022, but remained with the FIA for a short time before leaving the organization completely.
Why Masi was chosen
The Repco NextGen NZ Championship brings together numerous formula, touring car, and sports car series under one roof. The flagship of the championship is Formula Regional Oceania, the successor to the Toyota Racing Series, in which many of today’s Formula 1 drivers took their first important career steps.
The national association sees Masi’s appointment as an important step. Deborah Day, president of MotorSport New Zealand, emphasizes above all how crucial Masi’s “experience at the highest level” will be. “It will help us sharpen our systems, further develop our championships, and support our officials. His appointment is an important step in our broader strategy to modernize the sport, build expertise, and position it for long-term success.” “
Josie Spillane, CEO of the Repco NextGen NZ Championship, also had positive words to say: ”Michael is a tremendous asset to our summer season and fits perfectly with our goal of providing a world-class development championship for our participants and New Zealand motorsport.”
She also highlights the collaboration between all parties involved: “The process of working with MotorSport New Zealand and Toyota to make his appointment as Event Director possible shows what can be achieved when key stakeholders work together to advance the sport in a positive way.”