MASI APPOINTED TO ROLE AS SUPERCARS COMMISSION CHAIRMAN

After weeks of speculation, Michael Masi has been confirmed in the role as the new independent Chair of the Supercars Commission, by Supercars Australia.

In confirming the appointment, Supercars CEO Shane Howard said “I am delighted the Commission has appointed Michael to this important position for the sport,”

“The role of Commission Chair needs to be an independent, strong and robust leader. The person needs to effectively manage the Commission and its process, broker compromise where required and be a good communicator.” Howard said.

One of Australasia’s most experienced motorsport administrators, Masi takes over from Supercars’ Hall of Fame inductee, Neil Crompton who has held the position during the difficult times over the COVID 19 period and the move to the new Gen3 platform.

Masi came to prominence on the Australian motor sport scene in a variety of roles, initially with TOCA Australia, then soon after with TEGA, the Touring Car Entrants’ Group, and later with the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (now Motorsport Australia).

Masi has been involved with Supercars for a long period of time, and in various other roles within the sport.

In 2015 Masi was appointed as the Race Director for Supercars Dunlop Super2 Series.

In 2016 he was appointed to the role of Supercars Championship Deputy Race Director under the guidance of Tim Schenken.

In 2018, whilst maintaining both his Supercars roles he was appointed by the FIA as a Formula 1 Deputy Race Director alongside Charlie Whiting at several Formula 1 events including the Australian Grand Prix.

It was in that role and after Whiting’s tragic death on the eve of the 2019 Australian Grand Prix, Masi was promoted to the Race Director role in F1, a role he served until earlier this year.

Masi returned to Australia in April of this year following his time in the role of Formula 1 Race Director and spoke to AUTO ACTION ahead of the official media release this morning.

“I’ve been home a few months, and yes it’s been a great chance to spend some time, gather my thoughts and focus on my next steps.

“Basically get my feet back on the ground after what was a particular hectic few years in my FIA position.” Masi told AUTO ACTION.

“Yes, it’s pleasing just to be considered for the position and now that it’s confirmed, I feel very proud to follow in the footsteps of the previous commission chairs.

“They have all been supportive and have all offered to give me their support should I need it from them.”

Mark Skaife was the inaugural Supercars Commission Chairman, followed by Steve Horne and for the past couple of years Neil Crompton has been the interim commission chairman.

“I’m looking forward to getting into the job and working with the other members of the commission, most of who I have known and worked with for a very long time.”

“The position will take up a certain amount of my time, but it’s certainly not a full time role, and should other opportunities present I will look at them.

“And no, they don’t have to be limited to roles within motorsport.” Masi said.

“It’s an exciting time and we are all focused on the future and the introduction of the new Gen3 Supercars on the grid for the start of the 2023 Championship season.”

Masi said in a Supercars Media release: “I view this role as continuing the amazing work already done by Neil and the Commission to lead Supercars into a brand new era with the introduction of the Gen3 Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang.

“I’m very proud to have been appointed to this role and look forward to working with the key stakeholders in the sport to ensure the future is an exciting one for our teams, partners, sponsors and most importantly the fans.” Masi concluded.

Supercars CEO Shane Howard also said “Michael has worked closely and industriously with Supercars team owners, principals and stakeholders for many years and returns to Australia with vast experience and leadership which will be invaluable in guiding our sport into the future.

“I have met very few people with such an extensive understanding of the industry combined with an amazing passion. Michael will be a great successor to Neil who did such an outstanding job.

“We welcome Michael back to the pinnacle of racing here in Australia and look forward to working closely with him in his role as Chair of the Commission.”

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