Former Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has voiced strong criticism of the FIA’s handling of penalties in the 2024 Formula 1 season, singling out the governing body’s treatment of reigning world champion Max Verstappen. Montezemolo accused the FIA of over-policing the sport, particularly through exaggerated penalties that risk stifling the competition’s essence.
Verstappen’s “Unfair” Treatment in 2024
Verstappen, known for his aggressive racing style, found himself repeatedly penalized in 2024, including a controversial 20-second penalty at the Mexican Grand Prix, which drew widespread condemnation. Despite these setbacks, the Dutchman managed to clinch his fourth consecutive drivers’ championship. However, the FIA’s stringent enforcement of rules around contact and track limits became a significant talking point, leading to heated debates among fans and insiders.
Montezemolo, who presided over Ferrari during some of its most iconic years, didn’t hold back in criticizing the FIA’s approach:
“I think we are exaggerating, both in terms of physical contact and in going beyond the lines of the track. Formula 1 is becoming a precision watch: we must leave room for emotion, courage, and the ability of the drivers who must not look at the millimetres. It is one of the points to reflect on to change things a bit.”
“Healthy Duels” Are the Essence of F1
Montezemolo emphasized that F1’s rich history is built on fierce rivalries and wheel-to-wheel action. He pointed to legendary moments in the sport’s past—such as the famous battle between Gilles Villeneuve and René Arnoux at the 1979 French Grand Prix—as examples of racing that would likely face harsh penalties under today’s rules.
“F1 is made of healthy duels: what would they have done in the duel between Villeneuve and Arnoux, would they have put them in jail?”
The former Ferrari boss suggested that the FIA’s current rulebook sacrifices the excitement and unpredictability that have long been the hallmark of the sport. He argued that overly restrictive penalties take away from drivers’ ability to showcase bravery and skill under pressure.
Fans and Drivers Join the Chorus
Montezemolo is not alone in his criticism. Fans and several drivers have also expressed frustration with the FIA’s inconsistency in enforcing penalties. Many argue that the focus on millimeter-precise infractions—such as minor track-limit violations—detracts from the on-track action. Verstappen himself voiced his discontent earlier this year, calling the penalties “unnecessary distractions” that undermine the spirit of competition.
FIA’s Response: Room for Improvement
In light of the backlash, the FIA has hinted at potential reforms for the 2025 season, including revisiting track limit rules and how penalties are assessed for racing incidents. However, the governing body has also defended its commitment to safety and fairness, balancing the need for competitive racing with the responsibility to protect drivers and maintain integrity.
Looking Ahead: A Balancing Act
Montezemolo’s remarks highlight the broader tension in modern F1: balancing innovation, safety, and fairness with the need to preserve the sport’s heart-pounding drama. As F1 enters the final year of the current regulations in 2025, the debate over penalties and driver freedom will undoubtedly continue.
For now, Verstappen’s ability to overcome these challenges and secure the championship in a car that was arguably the third fastest on the grid only adds to his legacy—and to the ongoing discussion about what truly defines greatness in Formula 1.