Teams now more prudent when using FIA radio channel – Masi

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."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter