Rui Marques’ debut as Formula 1 race director during the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend has already made waves, earning him rare and widespread praise from drivers. Marques stepped into the role under challenging circumstances, following Niels Wittich’s controversial tenure and amid rising tensions between the FIA and drivers.
A Promising Start Amidst Tensions
Marques inherited the race director role after Niels Wittich’s departure, which followed persistent criticism about how drivers’ concerns were being handled under FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership.
Despite the stakes, Marques quickly demonstrated a willingness to address drivers’ feedback, surprising many with prompt changes and clear communication.
Drivers Feel Heard
One of Marques’ first acts as race director was to adjust track limits at Turn 4. Drivers had raised concerns about the necessity of strict limits at this corner, given the street circuit’s design. Marques responded by implementing a more relaxed approach.
George Russell, the Las Vegas GP pole-sitter, said: “We’ve been through an era where our comments are taken on board but very little change happens. [Now], we want to be heard and see action taken straight away. So far, it’s been positive.”
Another notable change was widening and recoloring the pit entry line after drivers flagged visibility issues. Marques introduced a two-color system for clarity, impressing drivers.
Carlos Sainz shared his thoughts: “We were very worried about [the line]… Today we turned up to the track, and it was widened. This was a very nice change with a very good approach.”
Unanimous Praise from Drivers
The quick actions taken by Marques have set a new tone, with several drivers publicly commending his proactive attitude:
Esteban Ocon: “Rui really wants to work with us. He made some really good changes.”
Kevin Magnussen: “He seemed keen to ask questions and be forthcoming of our ideas and opinions. Good feeling.”
Sainz went as far as to call Thursday night’s drivers’ meeting: “One of the best we’ve had in a long time.”
A New Direction for FIA-Driver Relations?
Marques’ early success highlights his understanding of a key grievance in the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA): that drivers feel ignored when raising safety and procedural concerns.
While the changes made so far—adjustments to track limits and pit entry markings—are relatively minor, they signal a shift in approach. Drivers now feel their input is being acknowledged and acted upon promptly.
Rui Marques has made an excellent first impression, surprising F1 drivers with his responsiveness and pragmatic decision-making. Though larger challenges loom, his proactive start offers hope for a more collaborative and transparent relationship between drivers and the FIA.
