Who are the FIA and which ex-drivers make up Formula 1’s governing body…Read more
Who are the FIA and which ex-drivers make up Formula 1’s governing body?
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is the governing body of Formula 1 and world motorsport, responsible for regulating and organizing various championships, including F2, Formula E, the World Endurance Championship (WEC), and the World Rally Championship (WRC).
In F1, the FIA oversees key decisions on and off the track, involving race stewards, scrutineers, and the race director, alongside collaboration with Formula One Management (FOM) on broader strategies.
The organization plays a vital role in shaping the sport, such as approving an 11th F1 team and signing the Diversity and Inclusion charter with all 10 teams.
The FIA has been central to many controversies in the 2024 F1 season, particularly involving Max Verstappen.
At the Mexican Grand Prix, Verstappen received two 10-second penalties, while at the Singapore Grand Prix, new guidelines on driver swearing led to him being penalized, sparking a protest.
These incidents highlight the FIA’s influence in maintaining rules and discipline in the sport.
The FIA is led by President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, a former racing driver who assumed the position in 2021, succeeding ex-Ferrari team principal Jean Todt.
Under his leadership, significant changes have occurred, including the announcement of 2026 regulation updates, the expansion to an 11-team grid, and the debut of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Key figures within the FIA include Nikolas Tombazis, the single-seater director, and Jan Monchaux, the single-seater technical director.
The FIA’s first CEO, Natalie Robyn, was appointed in 2022 but departed after 18 months, leaving the role vacant.
Race directors are prominent figures in F1 governance, with Rui Marques recently replacing Niels Wittich, who stepped down after serving as race director following the 2021 Abu Dhabi controversy that saw Michael Masi ousted.
The FIA’s stewards vary from race to race, with some being former F1 drivers like Johnny Herbert, who is well-known to fans.
These stewards enforce regulations during race weekends, ensuring fair competition and adherence to the rules.
About The Author
