F1 race director Charlie Whiting slams 'ludicrous' FIA exit rumours

Rumours have circulated over the course of the Italian Grand Prix weekend that Whiting is ready to quit the FIA and he is touting his services to the teams.

The 64-year-old, who has been with the FIA since 1988 when he was initially appointed as technical delegate, has categorically dismissed the speculation.

"I've heard this rather ludicrous story, and I don't know where it came from, that apparently I'm not happy at the FIA and I've been touting myself to the teams," Whiting told Autosport.

"It's entirely without foundation on both counts. It's laughable.

"I'm extremely happy doing what I'm doing, and I'm most certainly not touting myself to the teams - and if I did, I wouldn't do it in the paddock.

"A friend text me yesterday and said that even on TV someone had said I was leaving at the end of the year, that I'd have a year on gardening leave, and then I'd take over as team principal of a team.

"Well, that's news to me. It's complete nonsense."

Current FIA safety director Laurent Mekies will step into the role as Whiting's assistant from the end of the season, with Herbie Blash retiring from his position as deputy race director.

Whiting added: "Laurent has been with us this year to learn the ropes, which is normal procedure.

"I'm absolutely happy with that. He's a good guy, he's got lots of experience, more from an engineering standpoint, but he is picking things up very quickly.

"We've got to future-proof ourselves."

Whiting recognises the attention on his position comes with the territory surrounding the fact his role has become more high profile over the years.

"The reason for that is that people want to know more," said Whiting.

"It's not like the old days when a journalist would pop a story in per day. Now it's lots of little stories all the time."