(L to R): Fernando Alonso (ESP) from the Aston Martin F1 team with Mohammed Bin Sulayem (UAE) President of the FIA on the grid. 04/21/2024. 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 input and suggestions to improve the sport. He believes 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 occurred if Russell had avoided the collision.
At the Chinese Sprint, Alonso received a 10-second time penalty and three penalty points after colliding with Carlos Sainz during an overtaking maneuver at Turn 9 of the Shanghai circuit. Aston Martin requested a Right of Review, but the stewards rejected their appeal. Interestingly, Ben Sulayem himself had been previously investigated for allegedly lobbying to overturn a penalty against Alonso during the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. However, he was cleared of those charges by the governing body of motorsport.
If Alonso encounters more issues with race arbitration, he intends to contact the office of the FIA President to express his opinions as a driver.
