BREAKING: Lewis Hamilton Urges FIA for Improved C…read more
Lewis Hamilton Urges FIA for Improved Communication and Driver Collaboration
Lewis Hamilton has publicly called on the FIA, motorsport’s governing body, and its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, to enhance communication and collaboration with the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA). Speaking ahead of the Miami Grand Prix in May 2023, the seven-time world champion emphasized the importance of incorporating drivers’ perspectives in decision-making processes.
Hamilton’s comments shed light on ongoing tensions between the drivers and the FIA. At the end of 2022, the GPDA had openly criticized Ben Sulayem following a penalty issued to Max Verstappen for using strong language during a press conference. The GPDA urged Ben Sulayem to “consider his tone and language” and requested transparency regarding the allocation of fines paid by drivers.
Despite these calls, it appeared at the time that direct communication channels between the GPDA and Ben Sulayem or the FIA remained limited. The issue of penalties for swearing also surfaced in the World Rally Championship, where drivers reportedly boycotted media interviews after a similar penalty was handed to Hyundai driver Adrien Fourmaux. Ben Sulayem had hinted at potential changes to the FIA’s rules around swearing on social media following the WRC incident.
During the FIA press conference in Miami, Hamilton stressed the GPDA’s unity and their desire to work closely with the governing body for the betterment of the sport. “Ultimately, we don’t hold a power seat at the table and that needs to change in my opinion,” Hamilton stated. “If you look at other sports that have unions that may be something that comes into play at some stage. As I said, we don’t want to control things, we want to collaborate with them more and have our voices heard.”
He added the value of input from those directly involved in racing: “People making decisions for others that have never been in that position, it’s good to have a point of view from the driver’s perspective. That’s all we try to give.”
George Russell, a director of the GPDA, echoed Hamilton’s sentiments, expressing concern that the focus has drifted towards off-track issues such as fines and penalties rather than the core aspects of racing. “I feel like it’s unprecedented times that we’ve been in the last 18 months with what’s been changing, what’s happening,” Russell commented, referencing the period leading up to May 2023.
Russell highlighted that the GPDA was founded with a focus on safety and improving the sport and racing itself, rather than political matters. “We’re here to go racing. We’re here to create the best show for the fans, to have the fastest cars, the safest cars… but yet we talk about fines and punishment, swearing.” He concluded by stating the drivers are open to change and ultimately want what is best for Formula 1.
