BREAKING: George Russell Delivers Blistering Critique of FIA After L…read more
George Russell Slams FIA Over Leadership Turmoil After Shock Resignation
George Russell has voiced strong criticism of the FIA following the recent resignation of Robert Reid, the organisation’s deputy president for sport, who stepped down citing a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards.”
Russell, who also serves as president of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, said he wasn’t surprised by the news. Speaking during the Bahrain Grand Prix, the Mercedes driver remarked, “Whenever something like this comes from that side of the sport, it’s sadly not unexpected. It’s disappointing to see someone so respected and experienced leave. Hopefully, we’ll see more stability soon.”
Despite enjoying a solid start to his 2025 F1 season with three podiums in four races, Russell expressed concern about the FIA’s direction.
“It feels like these issues are becoming more frequent,” he said. “Drivers have tried to get involved in the past, but we didn’t get very far. Things seem to be moving in an increasingly unstable direction, and it feels like our efforts to influence things within the FIA aren’t making much of a difference anymore.”
Reid, who joined FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership team in 2021, had reportedly faced growing tensions with the president before his resignation. In response to the exit, the FIA issued a statement thanking Reid for his contributions and reaffirming its commitment to strong governance.
Reid’s departure adds to a growing list of recent high-profile exits from the FIA, including race director Niels Wittich and lead steward Tim Mayer. Former FIA CEO Natalie Robyn, who resigned in May 2024, has also previously spoken out about the internal challenges of working within the federation.
Russell’s blunt remarks underscore the growing frustration among drivers and insiders regarding the FIA’s internal struggles and signal a wider call for reform at the top of the sport’s governing body.
