Breaking:Tension as Fierce Dispute Erupts Between FIA President and Deputy Over S…read more
Tension as Fierce Dispute Erupts Between FIA President and Deputy Over Standards Breakdown
Tensions have erupted at the highest levels of Formula 1’s governing body, with a fierce dispute breaking out between FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and his deputy over the recent breakdown of regulatory standards.
According to sources within the FIA, the clash unfolded behind closed doors after several high-profile controversies during recent Grands Prix, where inconsistencies in race officiating and rule enforcement drew widespread criticism from teams, drivers, and fans alike.
The argument, described by insiders as “heated and deeply personal,” reportedly centered around the handling of race procedures, stewarding decisions, and the perceived erosion of the FIA’s authority and credibility. Ben Sulayem is said to have demanded immediate accountability, while his deputy pushed back, arguing that the problems stemmed from systemic issues that required broader reforms rather than assigning individual blame.
“The president is furious about the situation and feels the leadership team should have acted faster,” one senior FIA figure revealed. “But the deputy sees it differently believing patchwork fixes won’t solve a deeper, structural crisis.”
This internal power struggle comes at a critical time for Formula 1, as mounting criticism from drivers including Max Verstappen’s fiery confrontation with FIA leadership last weekend has intensified calls for greater transparency and consistency.
The FIA has not officially commented on the reported dispute. However, a spokesperson earlier confirmed that a comprehensive review into race operations and officiating standards is already underway, promising “significant recommendations” before the next Grand Prix.
Industry observers warn that the internal discord could further destabilize the FIA’s ability to manage the world’s premier motorsport series if not addressed swiftly. Some even speculate that leadership changes could be on the horizon if tensions continue to escalate.
As Formula 1 gears up for a pivotal phase of the 2025 season, the pressure is mounting not just on the track, but within the very organization tasked with overseeing the sport’s interity.
