Charlie Whiting joined the FIA in 1988, after a successful career as an engineer at the Brabham team. His work with F1’s governing body saw him promoted to Race Director in the late 1990s, putting him in charge of the safety of cars on track, the circuits that they’re racing on, and making sure those starting lights go out on a race weekend Sunday.

Biography

Charlie Whiting qualified as a mechanical engineer in the early 1970s, but he soon realised that cars, and motorsport was his career path. Charlie joined his brother’s garage business and supported him through his career as a rallycross driver.

Whiting’s profile gradually grew, and he was offered a position with the Brabham F1 team as chief mechanic and race engineer. He helped Nelson Piquet secure two World Championships in the 1980s, but more importantly, learnt all the skills required for his next challenge.

In 1988, Whiting joined motorsport’s governing body, the FIA, as the F1 Technical Delegate. In 1997, he moved to become the Race Director and Safety Delegate. Whiting is in charge of starting each and every race, as well as controlling any situations that may occur throughout. He also undertakes checks at existing and new circuits to ensure they are adequate for Formula One’s high standards.

Among his many FIA roles, Whiting serves as chairman of the F1 Working Groups, as well as participating in research, safety and circuit groups as well.