Masi thinks Wolff's allegations are nonsense: "No inconsistency at all"

Masi waves away objections

Mercedes team boss Wolff fell out over the fact that Lewis Hamilton had to start the sprint race from P20 because he was disqualified from qualifying. The Austrian felt it was a harsh measure and pointed to the fact that Red Bull were allowed to make repairs to the rear wing in parc fermé in the United States and Mexico.

Masi denies that the race committee sees Red Bull Racing as favourites. Motorsport.com quotes the Australian: "We have regular requests, at a sprint qualifying weekend it's obviously even more because of when parc ferme starts."

Only when the race committee sees that there are permanent defects in the cars then they intervene and expect the teams to adjust it. Masi: "So there's a lot that goes into it. So no, I don't think there's any inconsistency at all."

Heat of the battle between Red Bull and Mercedes

Masi understands that emotions are running high. The title fight between the drivers and constructors has not been this exciting for years. Masi also sees that this is why every little detail is scrutinized by the rival.

The race director concludes: "Every competitor, every driver, is treated equally and fairly at all times. Obviously, if you're on the receiving end of a penalty, I think everyone feels unfairly treated. So that's part of being in the role that we are."