Teams now more prudent when using FIA radio channel – Masi

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FIA race director Michael Masi says teams have reduced their radio transmissions to the governing body since the public broadcast of certain messages over the airwaves.

Formula 1 started to add team-to-FIA radio messages to its TV content earlier this year at the Spanish Grand Prix, and it's been a welcome addition for fans as it offers the latter more insight into what goes on behind the scenes.

In Barcelona, a radio message from Wolff aired during the race caught everyone's attention when the Mercedes boss called on Masi to take action against Haas' Nikita Mazepin who Wolff felt was holding up Lewis Hamilton.

Last weekend in Styria, following Valtteir Bottas' pitlane spin, McLaren team manager Paul James was heard buzzing Masi to complain about the "absolutely ridiculous" mishap by the Finn.

The message prompted a reply from Wolff who said: "It’s highly entertaining how quickly some sporting directors jump on the channel to Masi, and come with Armageddon scenarios.

"It’s good that these channels are opened up so we can all have a laugh."

Read also: Verstappen victory burnout in Styria frowned upon by FIA

With certain team messages now submitted to the scrutiny of the public, Masi reckons that teams are thinking twice before getting on the squawk box with the Aussie.

"I think, to be fair, each sporting team, and it’s no different in F1, will utilise the radio knowing that it’s there," said Masi.

"It’s been there for many years. Obviously it’s just broadcast now.

"If anything, knowing now that the teams know that it’s broadcast, it’s actually probably reduced the radio traffic in race control.

"From the team’s perspective, [it’s] making them probably think twice before they ask a question."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.