(L a R): Fernando Alonso (ESP) from Aston Martin F1 team with Mohammed Bin Sulayem (UAE) President of the FIA on the grid. 21.04.2024. 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 15th on the grid. He spoke positively about his recent conversation with Ben Sulayem, stating that the FIA President is always receptive to the opinions of drivers. Alonso emphasized that, as those behind the wheel, drivers can provide valuable contributions and suggestions to improve the sport. He believes that 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 happened if Russell had avoided the collision.
Nella Sprint dalla Cina, Alonso ha ricevuto una penalità di 10 secondi e tre punti di penalità dopo essere entrato in collisione con Carlos Sainz durante una manovra di sorpasso alla Curva 9 del circuito di Shanghai. La Aston Martin ha chiesto una Revisione dei Diritti, ma i commissari hanno respinto il loro appello. Curiosamente, Ben Sulayem stesso è stato investigato in precedenza per presunto lobbying per annullare una penalità contro Alonso durante il Gran Premio dell’Arabia Saudita del 2023. Tuttavia, è stato scagionato da tali accuse dall’organo di governo del motorsport.
Se Alonso dovesse incontrare ulteriori problemi con l’arbitraggio delle gare, ha intenzione di contattare l’ufficio del Presidente della FIA per esprimere le sue opinioni come pilota.
