F1 Drivers Seek More Influence in Sport Governance

Lewis Hamilton believes Formula 1 drivers should hold a significant position, a `power seat at the table,` in discussions regarding the governance of the sport. This sentiment arises amid ongoing discomfort among F1`s competitors concerning the leadership of FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Ben Sulayem recently indicated on his Instagram account that he is considering alterations to rules introduced in January. These included stricter regulations that could impose considerably heavier fines on drivers, for instance, for using inappropriate language. These stringent rules, which also potentially involve points deductions for repeated offenses, were implemented despite the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA) expressing strong opposition to being subject to censorship while in the cockpit in November of the previous year.

During the press conference for drivers ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, both Ferrari`s Hamilton and GPDA director George Russell voiced concerns about the existing power structure within the sport.

Hamilton Advocates for Driver Input

Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, stated that the GPDA maintains strong unity and aims to collaborate closely with the FIA. “Ultimately, we don`t hold a power seat at the table and that needs to change, in my opinion,” Hamilton asserted, acknowledging the difficulty in communication over time. He proposed that establishing a union, similar to those in other sports, might become a necessary step at some point.

He clarified that the drivers` goal is not to gain control but to enhance collaboration and ensure their voices are heard. Hamilton highlighted the importance of the driver`s perspective in decision-making, particularly when rules are set by individuals without direct experience in the cockpit.

Ben Sulayem Considers Rule Changes

Following backlash from drivers across several FIA world championships, including F1, Ben Sulayem mentioned on Instagram that he is looking into “improvements” for Appendix B of the FIA regulations. This part of the rules covers guidelines for stewards` penalties and addresses misconduct, including actions or words potentially causing `moral injury` to the FIA or motorsport. The current F1 penalties specify a €40,000 fine for a first breach, rising to €80,000 for a second, and €120,000 along with a one-month suspension and championship points deduction for a third offense.

Ben Sulayem`s post included: “Following constructive feedback from drivers across our seven FIA world championships, I am considering making improvements to Appendix B. As a former rally driver, I understand the demands they face better than most… Humans make the rules and humans can improve the rules. This principle of continuous improvement is something I have always believed in and is at the heart of all we do at the FIA.”

Russell Urges Action Over Words

George Russell commented that while Ben Sulayem`s post was “conceptually” a positive development, action is required. “We want to see these things put into action rather than saying we`re considering things. We all consider a lot of things,” Russell stated firmly.

He emphasized that “words don`t mean anything until the change is being made” and that concrete implementation is necessary before the drivers will offer further comment. Russell confirmed there has been no direct communication between the GPDA and the FIA on this specific topic since the drivers issued their open letter, leaving him uncertain if Ben Sulayem`s post was a direct response. He stressed the benefit to the sport if changes are made and drivers` perspectives are considered, leading to a more common-sense application of rules.

Concerns Over FIA Governance Direction

Mohammed Ben Sulayem`s presidency of the FIA, which commenced in December 2021, has been marked by significant internal changes and controversies. Notably, the Deputy President for Sport, Robert Reid, resigned recently, reportedly citing concerns regarding the direction of governance under Ben Sulayem.

Russell expressed regret that his role as a GPDA director has increasingly drawn focus to off-track political issues rather than the core aspects of racing. He recalled that the GPDA was established to improve safety and the sport itself, not to engage in politics. “We`re here to go racing… And yet we talk about fines and punishments and swearing,” he remarked, suggesting that “maybe something should change” to redirect focus back to creating the best racing, technology, and safety for the benefit of the fans and the sport`s essence.