FIA makes Berger new single-seater boss

The specifics of the recent speculation were wide of the mark, but Gerhard Berger has returned to an active role in premier motor sport.

The 52-year-old Austrian denied recent reports he was set to replace Eric Boullier as Lotus team boss, or head the GP2 team Super Nova.

But F1’s governing body has appointed the former ten-time grand prix winner, BMW motor sport director and Toro Rosso co-owner as the new president of the federation’s single-seater commission.

The FIA said Austrian Berger’s predecessor, Barry Bland, stepped down for "personal reasons".

The Paris body lists Gilles Simon, Ferrari’s former engine boss, as the commission’s existing secretary.

Meanwhile, the BBC reports that former long-time F1 doctor Professor Sid Watkins, 83 and a close friend of the late Ayrton Senna, has retired as president of the FIA Institute, but will continue in an honorary role.