Formula 1 will have a new race director from the Las Vegas Grand Prix as Niels Wittich has stepped down with immediate effect.

Wittich has served as F1's sole race director since the start of the 2023 season, having initially split the role with Eduardo Freitas in the wake of the end of Michael Masi's controversial tender ending after the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP.

There's been no indication that was going to change anytime soon until a surprise announcement from the FIA emerged on Tuesday.

“The FIA can confirm that Niels Wittich has stepped down from his position as F1 Race Director to pursue new opportunities," a statement from the FIA read.

"Niels has fulfilled his numerous responsibilities as race director with professionalism and dedication. We thank him for his commitment and we wish him the best for the future."

Wittich will be replaced by Rui Marques (below, right) who has a wealth of experience within the FIA.

Marques served as race director in Formula 2 and Formula 3 and has previously served as track marshal, scrutineer, and a steward as well as holding race director and deputy race director roles in other championships.

Picture of Marques courtesy of FIA/DPPI