Michael Masi’s continuation with the sport has many question marks around it, and so does the name of his potential successor. As rumors of Masi’s F1 exit intensify, FIA doesn’t have anyone to replace him with. As speculations fire away, former Alpine top management gets dragged in.
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Management in F1 teams has been shuffled a lot this time around; the major one being Otmar Szafnauer‘s exit from Aston Martin. This is because the rumor was he was to take a chair on Alpine’s pit wall, more specifically, Marcin Budkowski’s.
BREAKING: Executive Director Marcin Budkowski departs Alpine#F1 pic.twitter.com/7YQBXzx6WK
— Formula 1 (@F1) January 13, 2022
Budkowski had replaced Cyril Abiteboul in the role of Executive Director of the sports team. Although Alpine announced the departure, there is no mention of a successor yet. While Otmar seems to be the likely candidate, Budkowski finds himself in the discussions for a chair in the FIA.
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Being a former FIA technical delegate, he could potentially make a return to the governing body. Further with a seat possibly up for grabs, he could take Masi’s place as race director; a role that has been under the spotlight after the events of the Abu Dhabi GP.
Alpine F1 bids adieu to Marcin Budkowski
In replacing Cyril Abiteboul and rebranding to Alpine, the team had a new three-pronged leadership to replace the Frenchman. Budkowski, along with Rossi and Brivio, formed the core of the team.
CEO Laurent Rossi, parted with his partner with kind words, “I would like to thank Marcin Budkowski for his commitment and contribution to the team’s results over the last four years.” Focused on the challenge up ahead, Rossi also added, “The team is fully focused on getting the car ready for the first race in Bahrain and deliver a step beyond in performance.”
Reuters
Formula One F1 – Qatar Grand Prix – Losail International Circuit, Lusail, Qatar – November 20, 2021 Alpine’s Esteban Ocon during qualifying REUTERS/Thaier Al-Sudani
Budkowski had some words to share as well. “I truly enjoyed being part of the leadership team of Renault then Alpine F1 Team, working with such a talented and dedicated group of people. I will be watching the team’s progress fondly in the seasons to come.”
Thus, will Budkowski be watching Alpine from the comfort of his home or the hot seat of the F1 race director? Only time will tell.
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