F1 sporting director Nielsen set to depart FIA

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A shakeup is reportedly in store for the FIA's Formula 1 department ahead of the 2024 season, as sporting director Steve Nielsen prepares to step down.

Nielsen, who enjoyed a lengthy career in F1 that started in 1986 with Team Lotus and included spells with Tyrrell, Benetton, Arrows and then Toro Rosso and Williams, became Formula One Management’s sporting director in 2017 before taking on the role just a year ago with the FIA.

This season, the experienced Briton oversaw all sporting matters related to F1, including the ongoing development of the governing body’s dedicated Race Control and Remote Operations Centre, as well as updates to the Sporting Regulations.

But according to a report from Motorsport.com, Nielsen's alleged decision stems from growing dissatisfaction with the FIA’s F1 operations and how they are being managed.

Despite speculation indicating that Nielsen's departure is imminent, the FIA has yet to release an official statement on the matter.

Read also: FIA preparing to introduce ‘zero notice’ F1 factory inspections

Nielsen's departure, if confirmed, would come at a time when the FIA is facing intense scrutiny from Formula 1 over a number of issues ranging from the governing body’s stewardship on race weekends - with the 2023 season littered with a litany of controversial calls - to the equally questionable management style of its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Nilsen’s decision to part ways with the FIA is another setback for the organization, and it could make it more difficult for the institution to rebuild trust with F1 and the sport’s stakeholders.

It would also be a loss of institutional knowledge. Nielsen has been involved in Formula 1 for many years, and he has a deep understanding of the sport's rules and regulations.

His departure would leave a significant void in the FIA's expertise.

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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.