Motorsport New Zealand has announced that former Formula 1 racing director Michael Masi has joined the Repco NextGen New Zealand Championship ahead of the start of the 2026 season.
Massey will oversee New Zealand’s national series as tournament director, with a focus on “ensuring safety, fairness and professionalism at every round”.
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In addition to his primary responsibilities in the New Zealand Championship, he will work closely with Motorsport New Zealand “to adhere to the sport’s rules, regulations and operating procedures and provide expert advice to ensure they remain best practice and fit for purpose”.
In addition, he will help the governing body develop a new training and development framework for officers.
Massey’s appointment to the New Zealand Championship and his wider role in New Zealand motorsport comes three months after he resigned as Supercars Commission chairman, a role he has held since mid-2022.
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He will continue to serve on the boards of Karting Australia and Motorsport South Australia.
“New Zealand has a rich and proud tradition in the sport,” Massey said. “I very much look forward to working with and supporting Motorsport New Zealand, Toyota New Zealand and the Repco NextGen New Zealand Championship to continue to grow and develop the continued improvement of the sport for all participants and stakeholders.”
Michael Massey, Chairman of the Supercars Commission
Michael Massey, Chairman of the Supercars Commission
Massi previously served as F1 race director at the FIA but was sacked following controversy at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which drew criticism for his handling of the late safety car and procedural decisions. After stepping down as race director in 2022, he had a brief stay with the FIA before leaving altogether.
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The New Zealand Championship includes a variety of single-seat racing, touring car and sports car series. The Oceania Regional Formula Championship is the predecessor to the Toyota Racing Series, a series in which several current F1 drivers competed early in their careers and is the championship’s flagship category.
Motorsport New Zealand chairman Deborah Day said: “Michael’s experience at the highest levels of global motorsport will help us refine our systems, elevate our championships and provide support to our officials.”
“His appointment is an important step in our wider strategy to modernize, develop capabilities and set up the sport for long-term success.”
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Repco NextGen New Zealand Championship CEO Josie Spillane added: “Michael is an incredible addition to our summer and he aligns perfectly with our ambition to deliver a world-class development championship for our competitors and New Zealand motorsport.”
“Working with Motorsport New Zealand and Toyota to facilitate his role as race director demonstrates what can happen when key stakeholders work together to actively drive the sport forward.”
Also read:
Former F1 race director Michael Massey leaves FIA
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