Niels Wittich then took on the role in conjunction with Eduardo Freitas, the pair having been race directors in DTM and World Endurance Championship respectively, before becoming

In a statement issued by the FIA, F1’s governing body said Wittich had left the role "to pursue new opportunities.”

Formula 1 race director Niels Wittich has stepped down in a surprise move with three races to go and the title yet to be decided.