Vettel: 'Not easy to be in Masi's shoes'

Even at the presentation of the new Aston Martin, there was no escaping questions about race director Michael Masi following his decisions at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Sebastian Vettel used the moment to jump on the bandwagon for the Australian.

Since Abu Dhabi, the question is whether Masi can and should stay on as race director. The FIA is currently investigating the course of events. Vettel, also a board member of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, sympathizes with the race director. "Of course, it's not the easiest thing to be in his shoes, but he did a great job," quote Independent. Vettel also points to the sudden death of Charlie Whiting, Masi's predecessor.

According to Vettel, Masi is always very focused and determined to do his job as well as possible. "I don't know what's in store for his future, but I hope he stays because overall he has done a very good job. Despite the controversy in the last race."

Whatever happens with Masi as race director, Vettel does call for more clarity in situations such as during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with the safety car in the final laps of the race. Vettel also recognizes that two interests clashed then, the sport and the show. "I don't care so much about the show, because I look at the sport from a competitive point of view."