Just In: F1 drivers write scathing letter to FIA with Hamilton and Verstappen still fru…read more
F1 drivers write scathing letter to FIA with Hamilton and Verstappen still fru…read more
In a rare move, Formula 1 drivers have publicly voiced frustrations with the FIA, criticizing the sport’s governing body over its treatment of them. The Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), led by George Russell, issued a formal statement this week, addressing a series of contentious rulings by the FIA that have caused growing frustration among drivers, including prominent figures like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
The latest controversy stems from a penalty given to Verstappen at the Singapore Grand Prix, where the reigning world champion was ordered to perform community service as punishment for using profanity during a press conference. The incident triggered a backlash, with Verstappen protesting the decision throughout the Singapore race weekend. The GPDA’s recent statement underscored the drivers’ discontent with how disciplinary actions are being handled by the FIA, calling for greater consideration of context and fairness in rule enforcement.
The GPDA’s letter referenced various incidents that many drivers feel exemplify the FIA’s overly strict or inconsistent approach to discipline. Among these is Verstappen’s recent sanction, which has reignited debate over the difference between offensive language and casual swearing. The GPDA’s statement suggested that the FIA has misjudged instances where language is used to express frustration or describe situations, rather than intending to insult others. They argued that distinguishing intent should be a priority, suggesting that less formal language shouldn’t be penalized when it’s used in an expressive, non-targeted way, such as describing a malfunctioning car or adverse weather.
Other examples included the 2023 incident with Lewis Hamilton, who was instructed to remove his jewelry due to FIA safety protocols, and an earlier 2022 protest led by Sebastian Vettel, where he wore his racing underwear outside his suit in a symbolic critique of new guidelines mandating fireproof attire under drivers’ race suits. These incidents, according to the GPDA, represent a pattern of regulatory measures that may disregard drivers’ autonomy or fail to account for individual contexts.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has faced rising scrutiny, as his leadership has been associated with these and other contentious decisions. Drivers feel that the current stance from the FIA risks alienating key figures in the sport and creating unnecessary distractions, especially in a season marked by intense competition.
The GPDA’s letter signals a push for greater understanding and flexibility from the FIA, with drivers hopeful that voicing their concerns might encourage positive change in how the organization manages discipline within the sport.
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