Michael Masi said he would be "open" to a conversation with Lewis Hamilton, with the two men having not spoken since the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Masi was Formula 1 race director for that race, which served as both the season finale and the climax of what had been an enthralling title battle. Hamilton and Max Verstappen were level on points heading into the weekend, setting up a straight shoot-out between them.
Hamilton led for the majority of the race and looked to have victory in the bag until a late safety car closed up the field. It seemed like the race would end behind that safety car but, in his desire to have the title decided under racing conditions, Masi fast-tracked the process so the lights could go green on the final lap.
Verstappen had pitted for new soft tyres and Hamilton, on his older, harder rubber, was powerless to prevent the overtake. Mercedes were furious and, after a lengthy investigation, the FIA admitted "human error" had played a part and Masi was removed from his role.
He later left the FIA altogether and returned to his native Australia, to become chairman of the Supercars Commission. He is back in the F1 paddock this weekend with Supercars part of the on-track action at the Australian Grand Prix.
Asked by the Daily Mail if he would consider taking his old job back, he simply laughed. The events of Abu Dhabi '21 have not been forgiven or forgotten by all and, even though he understands why there is so much anger, he says he would still take the opportunity to speak to Hamilton about it.
"They have their perspective and are entitled to their view," he said of his critics. "I respect any view, and it's not for me to comment on what they do or don't think. And if I am approached to have a discussion I am open to it, and always have been."
But that seems unlikely, given the Brit's response when asked if he plans to have a conversation with Masi. He replied: "I don't. I am just focused on my future. I am focused on trying to get back to winning. There is nothing to say."
In any case, Masi says he is much happier with his life these days – back at home close to family and friends and no longer having to meet the intense travelling demands required of someone in attendance at every single race of the F1 season.
He said: "I loved the job but you don't realise the impact travelling so much has on you. When we last met in 2021, I literally lived on a plane. The joys of being able to cook a meal at home, being able to catch up with relatives are now open to me.
"When I stopped at the FIA, I told my parents, 'Those days are done for me'. I had told them after the Abu Dhabi fallout not to bother reading or watching anything. It's not healthy. The place can be a very toxic place. In many ways social media can be a great tool, but not so great in others.
"I have spent time looking after myself. It's done me good. It's what I needed. I spent a lot of time getting into physical shape but didn't spend enough on the mental side for a long while.
"There were people I was speaking to privately, my then partner – she was an amazing support – and friends and family. As for professional help, I got that, but probably later than I should have done – the latter part of last year, but things had largely calmed down by then."
