Massa appointed head of FIA Karting Commission

Felipe Massa has been named the FIA’s new head of its Karting Commission having recently retried from Formula 1 at the end of 2017.

The Brazilian driver stepped away from F1 last month having been involved in the sport since 2002 and expressed an eagerness to become more involved in other projects including working with the FIA. Massa has also voiced interest to race in Formula E but has pushed back any potential plans until the 2018-19 season for the all-electric series.

During this week’s FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting in Paris, it was announced Massa has been named President of CIK/International Karting Commission within the FIA, with the Netherland’s Kees van de Grint retaining his place as vice-president of the commission.

During his final F1 race weekend in Abu Dhabi, Massa hinted at a potential move into an FIA position and previously explained how he wanted to use his experience to help improve his country’s struggling motorsport situation. Massa’s exit from F1 means next year will mark the first time since 1969 there are no Brazilian drivers on the grid.

“We are discussing with some people from the FIA so I can do something,” Massa said in Abu Dhabi. “I am sure with the experience I have and related to motor racing, if I can give help I can do it.”

Massa ruled out any further FIA roles, including a suggested F1 race steward position, with the Brazilian aiming to enjoy his family life after retiring from racing. Massa has confirmed he’ll enter Brazilian Stock Car racing early next year as his first non-F1 race since his junior career.