The **FIA** has once again shuffled its deck at the highest level of **Formula 1** race management, cementing a crucial appointment that speaks volumes about continuity and experience. The sport welcomes **Paul Burns** into the vital role of **Deputy Race Director**, a move that sees him step up to partner **Rui Marques** and fill the significant shoes left by **Claire Dubbelman**.
- **Paul Burns** promoted to **F1 Deputy Race Director**.
- Joins current lead **Rui Marques** in race control.
- Fills the vacancy left by **Claire Dubbelman**'s departure.
- **Dubbelman** moved to the **Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation**.
New Face in the F1 Race Control Booth
In a key operational decision, the **FIA** has confirmed **Paul Burns** as the new **Deputy Race Director** for **Formula 1**. This appointment ensures stability in the critical race control environment, providing a seasoned hand to work alongside **Rui Marques**. The transition comes after **Claire Dubbelman**’s exit, leaving a void that needed to be promptly addressed ahead of a demanding F1 season. Burns’ promotion underscores the **FIA**’s commitment to internal talent and proven expertise.
Burns' Ascending Path to F1
**Paul Burns** is no stranger to the high-pressure world of motorsport officiating. The Northern Irishman brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Assistant Race Director for **Formula 2** throughout **2025**. His impressive resume also includes officiating roles for **F4** and **Formula Regional** categories at the prestigious **Macau Grand Prix**. Before joining the **FIA** in **2023** to bolster their **F1** race operations, Burns was a vital member of **Formula One Management's** timekeeping team, a role where he was instrumental in signing off grand prix results. This extensive background, starting from timekeeping at UK and Irish circuits, makes him an ideal candidate for this pivotal **F1** position.
Dubbelman's Bold New Horizon
The move for **Paul Burns** was necessitated by the departure of **Claire Dubbelman**, who officially left the **FIA** at the beginning of **2026**. **Dubbelman**, who had served as a **Deputy Race Director** for the opening two rounds of the season, has embarked on a new challenge, joining the **Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation**. In a candid social media post, **Dubbelman** elaborated on her decision, emphasizing that her departure was about seeking new opportunities rather than escaping previous issues within the **FIA**.
Stepping Into a Challenging New Role
**Dubbelman** explained her decision, stating, "After almost a decade at the **FIA**, I felt that I had reached a point where I had maximised every opportunity available to me within the organisation." She framed her move as a step "into a role in a new environment that challenges me at the next level," excited by the prospect of contributing to and developing motorsport in **Saudi Arabia**. Her enthusiasm for the region and its potential to foster talent and infrastructure signals a significant, positive shift in her career trajectory.
Ensuring Continuity in Race Operations
The rapid appointment of **Paul Burns** highlights the **FIA**'s dedication to maintaining seamless operations within **Formula 1**. With the departure of key personnel often sparking concerns, promoting an experienced individual like **Burns** sends a clear message of stability and confidence in the organization's talent pipeline. His deep understanding of race procedures and junior categories makes him perfectly poised to tackle the complexities of **F1** race control alongside **Rui Marques**, ensuring that the sport’s integrity and safety standards remain paramount.
