Rui Marques Calls 2025 a 'Fantastic' Season Amid F1 Race Director Pressure

Rui Marques has labeled his first full season as Formula 1’s permanent race director as "fantastic," acknowledging the immense pressure of the role while emphasizing the support from his team and the drivers. Despite facing scrutiny over several controversial decisions throughout the 2025 season, the Portuguese official remains confident in the standards maintained by race control. Marques, who brings extensive experience from F4 to Le Mans, admits that while F1 is "another level," he enjoys the challenge of the "hot seat."

Why it matters:

The consistency and judgment of the race director are vital for the integrity and flow of the sport. With high stakes and intense competition, every decision is scrutinized by teams and fans alike. Marques' ability to navigate his debut season while maintaining the trust of the drivers is crucial for the sport's stability heading into the new regulatory era.

The details:

• Season of Scrutiny: The 2025 campaign featured several defining moments where stewarding decisions clashed with driver opinions. A notable incident involved Carlos Sainz, who was penalized for colliding with Liam Lawson, only for the penalty points to be later rescinded when stewards re-evaluated the clash as a racing incident.
• Driver Endorsement: Despite the controversies, Sainz, a key figure in the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, offered strong support. He commended Marques for his "common sense" and judgment, stating that drivers feel comfortable knowing the role is in capable hands.
• Collaborative Approach: Marques emphasized that the role is not a one-man show. He relies on a team of five in race control and additional support from a secondary control room in Geneva to manage the high-pressure environment effectively.

Looking Ahead:

While Marques reflects positively on the season, Sainz highlighted that the next step involves refining guidelines regarding penalties. As the grid prepares for the 2026 regulation overhaul, establishing clear and consistent stewarding frameworks will be a priority to ensure fair competition.