Wolff, organizer of the F1 Academy support series exclusively for women, announced her decision on Wednesday, following the release of FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem from allegations of interference in two races last year.
“I can confirm that I personally filed a formal complaint in French courts on March 4 regarding statements made about me by the FIA in December,” she shared on social media.
“There has been a lack of transparency and accountability regarding the actions of the FIA and its employees in this matter.
“I believe it is now more important than ever to speak out against improper conduct and ensure that people are held accountable,” added the British driver. “While some may believe that remaining silent absolves them of any responsibility, that is not the case.”
In December, the FIA launched an investigation into the Wolffs after a magazine article alleged that a team manager had received confidential information from a commercial rights holder employee.
Susie Wolff, who reports directly to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, stated that the allegations seemed to be based on intimidating and misogynistic behavior, focusing more on her marital status than her skills.
The investigation was quickly closed after the other nine teams expressed their support for Susie Wolff.
Wolff’s legal action coincided with the FIA’s attempt to dismiss whistleblower allegations about Ben Sulayem’s conduct, while the sport was already embroiled in allegations involving F1 champions Red Bull.
A Red Bull employee, who was suspended after team principal Christian Horner was cleared of misconduct allegations he denies, is currently appealing the findings of an independent investigation conducted by the energy drinks company.
The FIA has not yet confirmed whether they also filed an official complaint against them.
Ben Sulayem had been accused of trying to hinder the approval of the highly anticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix and allegedly interfering in the outcome of the Saudi race in Jeddah. The FIA announced that its ethics committee had unanimously cleared the Emirati after a 30-day independent investigation. According to the FIA, there was no evidence to support the allegations of any form of interference involving FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Ben Sulayem was accused of interfering in a decision made by the stewards, leading to the reinstatement of Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin in third place in Jeddah. Additionally, it was alleged that the FIA President expressed a desire not to grant a license for the inaugural night Grand Prix in Las Vegas. The race, scheduled for November, was a crucial element of Formula One’s efforts, owned by Liberty Media, to promote the sport in a significant market in the United States that has experienced rapid growth. Ben Sulayem took over the presidency in 2021, succeeding France’s Jean Todt, and his tenure has been characterized by conflicts with Formula One. Formula One Management has held the commercial rights to the Championship for a century, since 2001, while the FIA acts as the governing body responsible for regulations, safety, and technical personnel. The two parties also disagree on the possibility of an 11th team, with Ben Sulayem advocating for the inclusion of a US-based Andretti-Cadillac team, while Formula One has ruled it out until at least 2028. (Reported by Alan Baldwin)
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Portugal wins Euro final in thrilling match
The Portuguese national football team won the Eurocup title in an exciting match against Germany. The Portuguese team showed a lot of determination and grit throughout the game, and managed to score the winning goal in the final minutes. With this result, Portugal becomes European champions for the second time in its history.
The game started with Germany pressing and creating several goal-scoring opportunities. However, the Portuguese defense proved solid and managed to prevent the opposing team from opening the scoring. Gradually, Portugal balanced the game and began creating its own goal-scoring chances.
In the second half, both teams continued to seek the winning goal. Germany even opened the scoring with a beautiful shot from outside the box, but Portugal did not give up and equalized shortly after. The game remained balanced until the final minutes, when Portugal scored the goal that secured the victory and the title.
The coach of the Portuguese national team, Fernando Santos, praised the players’ determination and highlighted the importance of this title for the country’s football. “It was a well-deserved victory, achieved with a lot of effort and dedication. I am very proud of the team’s performance,” Santos said.
The player Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of the Portuguese national team, also celebrated the victory. “It is a unique and special moment in my career. I am very happy to help Portugal reach the top of Europe again,” Ronaldo said.
The Portuguese fans celebrated in the streets of the country and around the world, showing their support and love for the team. The victory in the Eurocup is a historic milestone for Portugal and will certainly remain in the memory of all fans.
Now, the Portuguese national team is preparing for new challenges, including the World Cup. With the Eurocup title, the team gains even more confidence and motivation to seek more achievements in the future.
Portugal is celebrating and commemorating the title of European champion. The victory in the Euro final was thrilling and showcases the talent and determination of the Portuguese players. Now, it’s time to celebrate and dream of new achievements. Congratulations, Portugal!
