(L a R): Fernando Alonso (ESP) from the Aston Martin F1 team with Mohammed Bin Sulayem (UAE) President of the FIA on the grid. 21.04.2024. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 5, Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai, China, Race Day.
Fernando Alonso believes that Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the FIA, is always supportive of the opinions of Formula 1 drivers. Alonso expressed his dissatisfaction when Lewis Hamilton was not penalized for his involvement in a collision during the Miami Sprint, suggesting that this leniency was due to his nationality, stating: «because he is not Spanish.» Alonso intends to discuss this issue with Ben Sulayem and the FIA to ensure fair treatment of Spanish drivers in the future.
Alonso’s mood improved after the Grand Prix at the Miami International Autodrome, where he finished ninth after starting in 15th on the grid. He spoke positively about his recent conversation with Ben Sulayem, stating that the President of the FIA is always receptive to the opinions of the drivers. Alonso emphasized that, as the ones behind the wheel, drivers can provide valuable contributions and suggestions to improve the sport. He believes that there are specific areas that need attention to make Formula 1 a better and more consistent sport.
Throughout this season, Alonso has had disagreements with the stewards on several occasions. The first incident occurred after the Australian Grand Prix, when Alonso was involved in an accident with Russell at Turn 6. Despite there being no contact, the stewards deemed Alonso’s driving «potentially dangerous» and imposed a 20-second time penalty and three penalty points. Alonso argues that this discussion with the stewards would not have happened if Russell had avoided the collision.
En el Sprint de China, Alonso recibió una penalización de tiempo de 10 segundos y tres puntos de penalización después de chocar con Carlos Sainz durante una maniobra de adelantamiento en la Curva 9 del circuito de Shanghai. Aston Martin solicitó una Revisión de Derecho, pero los comisarios rechazaron su apelación. Curiosamente, Ben Sulayem él mismo fue investigado anteriormente por supuestamente hacer lobby para revertir una penalización contra Alonso durante el Gran Premio de Arabia Saudita de 2023. Sin embargo, fue absuelto de esas acusaciones por el organismo rector del automovilismo.
Si Alonso encuentra más problemas con la arbitraje de las carreras, tiene la intención de ponerse en contacto con la oficina del Presidente de la FIA para expresar sus opiniones como piloto.
