2019 Bahrain Grand Prix: FIA splits Charlie Whiting’s duties ahead of the race

The 2019 Bahrain Grand Prix will surely be one of the most anticipated races all year. This is for the simple reason that not only are Ferrari, past winners in 2017 and 2018 editions under some pressure to win the contest. But drivers like Bottas and Verstappen have suddenly upped the ante of the contest as seen in Australia.

Now, the time is for most others to step in, including Sebastian Vettel, who, it can be told, would be curious to know whether he can complete a hat-trick of wins at Sakhir, starting 2017.

But here’s what is making news just ahead of the 2019 Bahrain Grand Prix.

Apparently, the sport’s elite governing body, the FIA have made a decision to split the duties of the late-great Charlie Whiting, who left us right ahead of the season-opener at Melbourne.

That said, what is going to happen now, most would be wondering- right?

It’s been decided that Michael Masi would act as the Race Director for the 2019 Bahrain Grand Prix. In so doing, the late shuffle at the back of the Briton’s passing will involve Mr. Masi to overview, assess, review all important matters pertaining to the race.

But is that all? What about anyone else who could be shouldering the duties ahead of the 2019 Bahrain Grand Prix.

Well, to that note, let it be known that Mr. Masi will not be acting alone. Colin Haywood- the race control systems manager- would be acting as Michael Masi’s deputy race director. Furthermore, acting as the permanent race starter would be Christian Bryll, the F1 event logistics manager.

Although, Mr. Masi is also named as the FIA safety delegate for the Sakhir event, unlike Australia, he won’t be appearing as the permanent race starter. And therefore, that part of the role shall be fulfilled by Mr. Bryll.

That said, let’s hope the 2019 Bahrain Grand Prix produces a thrilling and closely fought contest. On whom are you bets placed on- Ferrari or Mercedes. And hey, hang on, there’s Red Bull and a recovering Renault in as well there!