Formula 1 drivers’ statement adds FIA resignation pressure

Formula 1 drivers' statement adds FIA resignation pressure

As a lifelong F1 enthusiast who has witnessed the highs and lows of this thrilling sport, I find myself deeply concerned about the current state of affairs between the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) and the FIA under President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The recent series of events, such as Max Verstappen’s community service for improper language and Charles Leclerc’s fine for an unintentional swear word, have sparked a wave of discontent among the drivers.


As a dedicated gamer, I’ve been following the FIA closely lately, and it seems their recent decisions have stirred up quite a bit of controversy. The latest incident involving Max Verstappen being penalized with a form of community service for his choice of words during media day in Singapore has sparked a wave of criticism against them.

Many participants, among them likely every driver on the track, considered it immature for the FIA to impose such a penalty on the Dutch driver.

Moreover, Charles Leclerc was called before the stewards and given a penalty for using inappropriate language at a press conference, despite it being accidental. This incident, however minor, seems to be the last straw for the drivers, as they have grown weary of the situation.

Approximately a week ago, we launched a fresh Instagram account for the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA). Since then, it has begun following every driver on the Formula 1 grid, as well as significant figures within the sport.

After several days filled with anticipation, they finally released their first official statement. The core idea expressed was a desire for drivers to be treated as mature individuals, free from overly trivial rules and regulations. In reference to the 2022 Miami Grand Prix incident involving Lewis Hamilton, they pointed out that he had flaunted jewelry in defiance of a rule that had been announced previously.

This could backfire immensely for Sulayem.

Over the recent events in Formula 1, there’s been a noticeable surge of criticism targeted at the FIA president. With drivers now speaking out more openly about certain decisions affecting them, their growing solidarity might carry certain repercussions.

In the realm of Formula 1, drivers typically take center stage. As a result, with the GPDA expressing such open dissatisfaction towards the FIA, the reputation of both the FIA and its head, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, is becoming increasingly blemished.

Since Sulayem is under increased scrutiny from both media and drivers, it’s likely that the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) would release more statements if there’s no action taken by the FIA president. It wouldn’t be unexpected if he steps down from his role before the 2025 Formula 1 season begins under these circumstances.

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2024-11-14 14:32

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