Is Charlie Whiting all set for retirement?

Rumors are once again gathering pace that FIA race director Charlie Whiting could call it a day at the end of the current F1 season.

A long-time Bernie Ecclestone ally, from the former supremo's Brabham days, Whiting could also close the chapter of his involvement at the pinnacle of motor sport.

The 65-year-old became the FIA's Technical Delegate to Formula One in 1988, and was appointed Race Director and Safety Delegate in 1997. 

Spanish sports daily Marca, through its correspondent Jose Maria Rubio, is reporting that Whiting could call it quits, with deputy race director Laurent Mekies set to take his place.

"All indications are that French engineer Laurent Mekies, who has been with the FIA since leaving Toro Rosso, will be his successor," wrote Rubio.

"Mekies could take on the new role next year, so that after Whiting goes, there will be almost no one left in key positions from the Bernie era," Rubio added.

Indeed, both Herbie Blash and Pasquale Lattunedu, two close allies of Ecclestone, have left the sport.

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