FIA race director Niels Wittich cleared for Miami

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FIA race director Niels Wittich has delivered a negative Covid test, clearing the official to stand post at this week's inaugural Miami Grand Prix.

A wind of panic blew on motorsport's governing body last week when Sky Sports Craig Slater revealed that both Wittich and co-F1 race director Eduardo Freitas had tested positive for Covid, calling into to question their presence in Miami for the fifth round of the 2022 F1 World Championship.

This year, in the wake of Michael Masi's ousting as F1's race director, Wittich and Freitas are alternating in the role, although the former has officiated at all rounds so far this season.

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But the prospect of both men being barred from traveling to the US as a result of their positive Covid test opened up the possibility of the FIA implementing a plan B.

It is believed that F1 veteran and FIA official Herbie Blash was considered as a potential replacement, with the Briton working alongside deputy race director Colin Haywood.

Fortunately, no contingency plans will be put into action, with Sky Sports confirming that Wittich has been given a clean bill of health for entering the United States and assuming his duties in Miami.

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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.