Danny Sullivan: Masi 'Gifted' Verstappen 2021 Title Under Pressure

Former FIA steward Danny Sullivan has reignited the debate surrounding the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, arguing that Michael Masi effectively "gifted" Max Verstappen the championship. Sullivan asserts that the decision to unlapped only five cars was a solo move by Race Control to manufacture a green-flag finish, ignoring the regulation that requires clearing all lapped cars.

Why it matters:

The 2021 finale remains the most divisive moment in modern F1 history. Sullivan's insider perspective shifts the narrative from conspiracy to human error under extreme pressure, validating the frustration of Mercedes fans while clearing the stewards of systemic bias.

The details:

• Race Control Acted Alone: Sullivan clarified that the stewards had no input on the safety car restart procedure; it was solely Masi's call under intense pressure to avoid finishing under yellow.
• The Rule vs. Reality: Under the sporting regulations, Masi was required to let all lapped cars pass. Doing so would have consumed the remaining laps, ending the race under yellow and handing Hamilton the title. Instead, he only waved five cars by to create a final lap showdown.
• The Inevitable Outcome: With Verstappen on fresh soft tires and Hamilton on 44-lap old hards, Sullivan stated there was "not a chance in hell" Verstappen wouldn't pass, removing the sporting drama from the equation.

Between the lines:

Sullivan strongly defended the integrity of the stewarding panel, dismissing theories of favoritism or corruption. He noted that decisions are made with unequivocal data, including throttle traces and brake pressure, and that he never witnessed bias in 14 years of service. He attributes the infamous error to the immense fatigue and pressure of a 23-race season, suggesting Masi crumbled under the sport's demand for a spectacle rather than acting with malice.