Former Formula 1 race director Michael Masi has taken a new step in his career by joining SRO Motorsports Australia as head of sporting. The Australian will begin a handover immediately before stepping into the role full-time in 2027.
In his new position, Masi will oversee the rules and regulations of SRO’s categories, ensuring processes and procedures are followed under SRO Global standards. He will also be responsible for managing the stewards, race director and other race officials.
Masi takes over from Abi Hay, who will return to Europe to focus on her position as series manager of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, SRO manufacturer relations manager, and SRO GT Academy manager. SRO Motorsports Australia CEO Ben McMellan expressed his excitement at appointing somebody of Masi’s experience.
"We are delighted to have someone of Michael’s stature joining SRO Motorsports Australia for the remainder of the 2026 season and beyond," McMellan said. "Michael brings an enormous amount of experience from decades spent in top positions of motorsport, and we’re confident his knowledge and expertise will help take GT racing in Australia to the next level."
Masi himself is looking forward to the opportunity. "This is an extremely exciting opportunity to be part of the next chapter for SRO Motorsports Australia, and I’m looking forward to continuing the great work that has already been done by the team and particularly Abi," he said. "GT racing in Australia has been on a steady rise, and I’m confident there is plenty of opportunity to continue building on the strong foundations that have already been established."
McMellan also paid tribute to Abi Hay for her contributions over the past three years. "While Michael’s appointment is a fantastic coup, he is also stepping into a strong position that has been built through the tireless efforts of Abi Hay. We want to thank Abi for everything she has contributed," he added.
Masi is no stranger to Australian motorsport, having held several roles within Motorsport Australia – including CEO of Rally Australia and deputy race director for Supercars. He is best known for his time as race director for Formula 1 from 2019 to 2021, which culminated in the infamous title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Alongside the role at SRO, Masi will continue to serve as deputy chair of Karting Australia and remain a board member of the South Australian Motor Sport Board.
Masi’s tenure commences this weekend at the Shannons SpeedSeries GT Festival Sydney at Sydney Motorsport Park on September 18-20.
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