Michael Masi signs on as event director of NextGen NZ Championship
Words: Andrew Sluys
Motorsport New Zealand has appointed Michael Masi as the event director for the upcoming NextGen NZ Championship.
As the event director, Masi will be “responsible for overseeing the team of MotorSport New Zealand officials,” the Motorsport NZ release reads.
He will also be “working closely with the Repco NextGen NZ Championship operations team to ensure the safe, fair, and professional delivery of each round.”
Masi is best known for his work as former Formula 1 race director, a job held from 2019 until 2021.
He was removed from this role following the controversial ending to the 2021 season, which saw Max Verstappen claim victory over Lewis Hamilton.
Since then, he has worked with other motorsport organisations such as Supercars, Karting Australia, and the South Australian Motor Sport Board.
“New Zealand has an abundantly rich and proud heritage in the sport,” said Masi.
“I’m very much looking forward to working in partnership with, and supporting MotorSport New Zealand, Toyota New Zealand, and the Repco NextGen NZ Championship to continue building upon and developing the continual improvement of the sport for all participants and stakeholders.”
Deborah Day, MotorSport New Zealand President, sees Masi’s appointment as an invaluable opportunity for the sport.
“Michael’s experience at the highest levels of global motorsport will help us sharpen our systems, elevate our championships, and support our officials,” said Day.
“His appointment is an important step in our broader strategy to modernise, develop capability, and set the sport up for long-term success.”
Masi will first attend the Allied Petroleum Hampton Downs International on January 9-11 2026, and will then also oversee events at the Giltrap Group Historic GP in Taupo, Ascot Park Hotel Teretonga International and the NAPA 70th New Zealand Grand Prix at Highlands.
