The fact that she is also a woman and has taken the position about eighteen months ago will be especially frustrating for the troubled President of the governing body, as F1 tries to distance itself from its reputation as a male-dominated sport.
Robyn’s departure marks the fourth high-level executive to leave the company in recent months. The FIA made it clear that she was removed, using the vague phrase “pursuing other career opportunities.”
This is a common explanation given when someone is not performing well in their role. However, the organization, which is usually stable in terms of personnel, is now seeing a significant number of high-profile departures. This suggests that there may be internal issues within the FIA. However, it is also possible that these individuals were enticed to leave!
Even to the most casual observer, it is evident that there is a power struggle over who controls F1. Specifically, it is between the commercial rights holder, Formula One Management (FOM), also known as Liberty Media, and the FIA, which holds the rights and regulates F1.
The FIA’s attempt to increase the number of teams and express their opinion on the value of Liberty’s commercial rights has irritated the FOM. They see this as the FIA encroaching on their territory. On the other hand, the FIA believes they have every right to do so, as they are the ultimate owners of the sport and its regulatory body.
Andretti Motorsport, a potential F1 team, supports the FIA’s position. However, they are frustrated with Stefan Domenicali, the guardian of the FOM Club, repeatedly informing them that their names are not on the list.
By aligning with the FIA, they have become pawns in a battle that their supporter seems to be losing. However, they recently urged the United States Congress to investigate the matter, which could change the dynamics of the situation.
This was a significant move, but I believe that Liberty, the main shareholder of FOM and an American company, will make it irrelevant. However, this could also intensify Liberty’s attempt to take full control.
Much of what the FIA President wants to achieve will benefit the fans and the sport. There is no true fan who does not want to see larger grids. He stated that we will not wake up one day to find out that the FIA no longer exists in F1.
I agree, but we may find out that FOM no longer exists within the FIA. Unfortunately, the loss of competent individuals at the top of the FIA creates an opportunity for Liberty to say, “You focus on regulating the minor details, and we will bring a more qualified organization to manage F1.” Maybe the Sports Car Club of America?
