AUSTIN, TEXAS – OCTOBER 21: Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner talks with FIA President Mohammed ben Sulayem on the grid during the Sprint before the United States Formula 1 Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas on October 21, 2023 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202310220037 // Editorial use only //
In a recent statement, it was announced that President Ben Sulayem fully cooperated, was transparent, and complied with the investigation. The month-long investigation found no evidence to support the allegations against the FIA President. The FIA Ethics Committee determined that the accusations against President Ben Sulayem were unfounded and supported by strong evidence. The FIA, in a press release, revealed that an independent body confirmed the unfounded nature of the allegations against the FIA President. The investigation, which included interviews with 11 witnesses, lasted 30 days.
The FIA Compliance Department, with the assistance of external consultants, conducted thorough investigations into allegations of possible interference in sporting decisions during Formula 1 events in 2023. After reviewing the investigation results, the Ethics Committee unanimously concluded that there was no evidence to support the allegations of interference involving President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Concerns about potential interference were reported to the FIA Compliance Officer and subsequently referred to the FIA Ethics Committee, in accordance with Article 32.2.5 of the FIA Statutes. A comprehensive and independent review, lasting 30 days and including interviews with 11 witnesses, was conducted. The allegations against the FIA President were deemed meritless, and the FIA Ethics Committee had ample evidence to support its determination.
President Ben Sulayem has been cleared of any wrongdoing in relation to allegations of interference in the decision of the Commissioners to overturn a penalty on Car 14 during the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix of 2023, following a challenge from the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 team. Additionally, there were accusations of attempting to interfere in the track certification process for the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix. However, the certification process was completed and approved on time, and President Ben Sulayem’s full cooperation, transparency, and compliance during the investigation were highly valued.
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