FIA race director Charlie Whiting passes away

Charlie Whiting, the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile's (FIA) director of Formula One died at 66.

The FIA, Formula one's governing body confirmed through a statement that "Whiting died on Thursday morning as a result of pulmonary embolism."

Whiting was considered as one of the most influential people in the sport. This news comes just three days ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on Sunday.

The director held a key role in the running of Formula One race weekends, overseeing the FIA's operation of all on-track sessions.

In addition to his duties at Grand Prix weekends, he also had a wide-ranging position at the FIA overseeing safety and technical matters in the sport.

"It is with immense sadness that I learned of Charlie's passing. Charlie Whiting was a great race director, a central and inimitable figure in Formula One who embodied the ethics and spirit of this fantastic sport," FIA President Jean Todt said in his official statement.

"Formula One has lost a faithful friend and a charismatic ambassador in Charlie. All my thoughts, those of the FIA and entire motorsport community go out to his family, friends, and all Formula One lovers," he added.

The FIA is yet to confirm who will replace Whiting in the role of race director this weekend.