In a fiery response to recent criticism from Formula 1 drivers and media alike, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has dismissed concerns over the governing body’s operations and declared that how he runs the FIA is “none of their business.” Speaking ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix, Ben Sulayem addressed allegations of turmoil within the FIA, his handling of high-level departures, and questions raised by drivers over transparency and decision-making.
Defiance Amid Criticism: “I’m Fixing the FIA”
Ben Sulayem has come under scrutiny following the abrupt exit of key figures, including F1 race director Niels Wittich, and an open letter from the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) demanding greater transparency, particularly regarding how funds from driver fines are spent. The GPDA urged the FIA to treat drivers “like adults,” sparking a pointed response from the president.
“None of their business,” Ben Sulayem said bluntly. “I respect the drivers. Let them go and concentrate on what they do best, which is race.”
The FIA boss further defended the organization’s spending, revealing that €10.3 million was invested in grassroots motorsport in 2023, with similar investments planned for 2024. Additionally, funds have been allocated to motorsport safety, medical costs, and technical projects.
Responding to Driver Criticisms: Transparency or Tension?
When questioned about the GPDA’s concerns, including the removal of Wittich with three races left in the season, Ben Sulayem maintained that the FIA is not obligated to explain its decisions to drivers or the media.
“Do we have to tell them? When something in the teams changes, do they tell us? No, they don’t. Nobody has to,” he said. “We have the rules, we follow our rules. We don’t follow someone else’s rules.”
Turning the Spotlight: Recruitment and Resilience
Amid speculation of internal chaos, Ben Sulayem emphasized the FIA’s ongoing growth, citing significant recruitment efforts over the past two years. He claimed that the number of new hires far outweighs recent departures, with 64 employees joining in 2023 and 92 more expected in 2024.
“I’m very optimistic about the FIA,” he said. “Whatever it takes to bring the FIA to a better position, I will do it.”
The president downplayed allegations of mismanagement, referencing accusations from the media as baseless distractions. “They accused me of sexism, of stealing money, of interfering with steward decisions. Where is the proof? It’s all noise,” he said.
Dismissing Chaos Talk: “Let Them Talk”
Ben Sulayem brushed aside suggestions of crisis within the FIA as paddock gossip and British media fabrication. He remained resolute in his mission to lead the organization as he sees fit, declaring his focus to be on serving FIA member clubs rather than appeasing external critics.
“Am I still alive here? Yes. Am I doing the priority for the FIA? Yes. Did I break any rules? No,” he stated. “Whatever they write about me, I don’t care. I think I live free of charge in their brains, huh? It’s a good apartment there.”
A Divided Paddock: What’s Next for the FIA?
While Ben Sulayem’s uncompromising stance signals confidence in his leadership, his confrontational tone may deepen divisions within the paddock. Drivers, teams, and stakeholders continue to call for greater transparency and collaboration, but Ben Sulayem appears intent on asserting the FIA’s independence.
For Formula 1, the tension between the governing body and its participants could shape the sport’s future, especially as discussions around regulations, governance, and revenue distribution intensify.
Conclusion: Leadership Under Fire, FIA’s Future in Focus
Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership of the FIA has been marked by bold decisions and controversy, and his latest remarks underscore a no-nonsense approach to criticism. While he touts progress within the organization, skepticism from drivers and media persists, highlighting the delicate balance between autonomy and accountability in motorsport governance.
As the season nears its conclusion, all eyes are on how the FIA navigates these turbulent times and whether Ben Sulayem’s vision for the governing body aligns with the expectations of the sport’s stakeholders. One thing is clear: the FIA president isn’t backing down.
