Former F1 team boss Eddie Jordan has launched a scathing critique at FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, urging him to regain control of the regulatory body amidst a series of controversies that have eroded its credibility. Jordan, known for his forthright opinions, pulled no punches in addressing the turbulent state of the FIA under Ben Sulayem’s leadership.
Since taking office in 2021, Ben Sulayem has faced mounting scrutiny for his handling of sensitive issues, most notably the swearing controversy involving Max Verstappen earlier in the 2024 season. The incident sparked widespread backlash among fans, further amplifying concerns about the FIA’s ability to maintain its stature and integrity.
Jordan, who has been a staple voice in motorsport, was clear in his message: “For Christ’s sake, get a grip of what’s going on in the FIA,” he demanded during a recent interview. Despite his longstanding relationship with Ben Sulayem, spanning over three decades, Jordan did not mince words:
“I actually really do like you, Mohammed, I’ve known you 35 years. But look, I don’t care if I get banned from going to a Grand Prix—this situation cannot go on.”
Pressure Mounts Amid a Critical Year for the FIA
The FIA has been under fire for questionable decisions that have cast a shadow over Formula 1’s governance. Fans and insiders alike have raised concerns about inconsistent rulings, a lack of transparency, and leadership missteps. Jordan’s outburst reflects growing frustration within the motorsport community, where confidence in the FIA has reached what many are calling an “all-time low.”
Ben Sulayem’s leadership was also tainted by recent statute changes, which many saw as consolidating power rather than addressing the sport’s real issues. Combined with the Verstappen swearing fallout and increased tensions between the FIA and Formula 1 stakeholders, the situation has fueled calls for a course correction at the top.
Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz Drama Adds Fuel to the Fire
As if the FIA’s woes weren’t enough, Eddie Jordan also weighed in on a different drama unfolding within the sport—the ongoing influence of Max Verstappen in Red Bull’s driver dynamics. Jordan revealed his belief that Carlos Sainz was blocked from a Red Bull return due to Verstappen’s preference for a weaker teammate like Sergio Perez.
“Max put pressure on Christian [Horner]. He did not want Carlos Sainz in the car. He wanted Checo because he knew he could beat him,” Jordan explained. “Max has to think about that a little bit, and Christian has to think about that too.”
With Sainz now signed to Williams for 2025 and beyond, the Spaniard faces the task of rebuilding the Grove-based team after a dismal 2024 season. While some see it as a missed opportunity for Red Bull to bolster their lineup, Sainz remains focused on leading Williams into a new era.
What’s Next for the FIA and F1?
Eddie Jordan’s impassioned plea adds to the mounting pressure on Mohammed Ben Sulayem to address the growing cracks within the FIA. With F1 on the cusp of significant changes—driver transfers, new regulations, and increasing fan demands—leadership missteps could further fracture trust in the governing body.
As for Red Bull, the decision to stick with Sergio Perez remains a hot topic. Verstappen’s dominance may be secure for now, but questions linger over whether blocking talent like Carlos Sainz will ultimately hurt the team in the long run.
The 2025 season promises to be a turning point, not only for teams like Williams and Red Bull but for the FIA itself. The motorsport world will watch closely to see if Ben Sulayem heeds Jordan’s warning and restores confidence in the sport’s leadership before the cracks deepen any further.
