F1 presenter Ted Kravitz defended former race director Michael Masi’s decisions during the controversial final laps of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, addressing the widespread Lewis Hamilton Abu Dhabi controversy. The title-deciding race saw Hamilton and Max Verstappen enter with equal points, but Masi’s handling of lapped cars behind a late safety car dramatically affected the championship outcome.
Lewis Hamilton led most of the race and appeared set to claim a record-breaking eighth World Championship if the event had ended without interruption. However, a late crash caused by Nicholas Latifi brought out the safety car, forcing Verstappen to pit for fresh soft tires while Hamilton remained on older rubber. Approaching the race’s restart, Masi allowed only the lapped vehicles between Hamilton and Verstappen to unlap themselves, bringing the two title contenders directly side by side for the final sprint. Verstappen passed Hamilton after the restart and secured his first world title, while Hamilton finished second.
The decision to selectively unlapped cars stirred major disputes. Several considered the stewards’ choices inconsistent and directly influencing the championship result. These events led to Masi’s removal as race director and sparked numerous regulatory changes in Formula 1.
Kravitz Refutes Claims of Bias in 2021 Abu Dhabi Race
Despite persistent allegations that Michael Masi favored either Hamilton or Verstappen during the final laps, Ted Kravitz recently rejected such conspiracy theories. Speaking on the ainslie + ainslie Performance People podcast, Kravitz said:
“If you feel there was some intent to make sure Lewis Hamilton wasn’t an eight-time world champion,” he said.
“There is no evidence to support that. There’s no evidence Michael Masi had a preference either way.”
Nevertheless, fans remain divided, with many convinced that Masi’s decisions were biased and speculate that a non-disclosure agreement hides the truth. Others argue it is time to move past the incident, given it occurred four years ago.
Review of Lewis Hamilton’s Performance Since the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP
Following the Abu Dhabi controversy, Hamilton’s career trajectory shifted noticeably. The 2022 Formula 1 season introduced major aerodynamic regulation changes that benefited Red Bull Racing, reigniting their dominance. Meanwhile, Mercedes struggled with the design and performance of their car, causing Hamilton to frequently miss out on qualifying success and podium finishes. He went an entire season without a win through early 2024.
Mercedes improved incrementally over two seasons, yet Hamilton opted to join Ferrari for the 2025 campaign. Unfortunately, since switching teams, his results have dipped further. Hamilton has yet to finish higher than fourth place in any race this year, and Ferrari’s overall competitiveness remains uncertain, with no significant gains expected soon.
Hamilton acknowledged Ferrari is prioritizing development of their 2026 car, which could become a more serious contender depending on rival teams’ progress and performance.
Long-Term Implications of the Abu Dhabi Controversy on F1 and Drivers
The effects of the 2021 Abu Dhabi controversy have lingered, not just in championship records but in shaping the careers of key drivers and the sport’s governance. Masi’s removal indicated a serious attempt by Formula 1 to restore credibility and ensure clearer regulations for race management. Meanwhile, the rivalry between Hamilton and Verstappen continues to be a defining storyline for the sport’s current era.
Hamilton’s decline in winning form contrasts with Verstappen’s continued dominance, underscoring how pivotal moments like Abu Dhabi can alter the competitive landscape. Veterans and journalists in motorsports remain deeply engaged in these topics, examining every aspect to ascertain fairness and future protections for drivers competing at the highest level.
