Lewis Hamilton has been accused of attempting to force Michael Masi out of F1.
The Australian’s job is on the line following his intervention at the controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last year.
His decisions cost Hamilton a record eighth F1 world title and reports have suggested the Brit's return to the sport hinges on whether Masi remains in his role as race director.
An enquiry into the controversial events of the 2021 F1 season's final race are ongoing and the findings are not to be released until March 18, two days before the beginning of the 2022 season.
Hamilton has been silent since he finished second in the 2021 season finale, a race which he was heard saying was “manipulated” on the team radio.
Many believe his continued silence is because he is contemplating his future in the sport.
Dutch sportscar driver Jeroen Bleekemolen hopes Hamilton does return to F1, but he reportedly stated that the Brit’s influence in the sport could lead to significant changes being made and believes the seven-time champ wants Masi removed from his post.
“I expect and hope he continues. It's more fun when he's there,' he told Dutch outlet NOS .
“Lewis is driven and good enough to last a few more years. He also sees that eighth world title.
“Hamilton is trying to increase the pressure on the FIA motorsport federation and is powerful. I think he wants to get some people out of there, like race director Michael Masi.
“Lewis wants to turn it upside down. He can do that. He has a lot of influence as the greatest of all. Some people will disappear.”
On Monday, F1 revealed they are planning to implement a new race-management structure.
Furthermore, teams are said to have been consulted over whether a new race director should be brought in.
If so, they are taking their time as the FIA released a statement providing an update on Masi’s future.
Their statement read: “At this stage, no decision has been taken on the outcome of the detailed analysis currently underway into the events of the last Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
"As previously announced, the findings of this detailed analysis will be presented at the F1 Commission meeting in London on 14th February after an open discussion with all F1 drivers and then finally have to be approved at the World Motor Sport Council meeting on 18th March in Bahrain, under the authority of FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.”
As we look ahead to the new season, seven of the ten F1 teams have announced the dates for the unveiling of their new cars.
Alfa Romeo are the latest team to disclose a release date, which is set to February 27th.
Constructors champions Mercedes will unveil their new model on February 18th, while Red Bull have yet to confirm a date.
