FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has reportedly received a significant and unexpected letter from all 20 drivers competing in the 2025/2026 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship grid, calling for major reforms within the series. The collective message urges a full reassessment of the sporting regulations, race control procedures, and stewarding standards, alongside an independent review of consistency in decision-making.
According to reports, the drivers united to express concerns about what they describe as ongoing frustrations within the championship. The letter was officially sent on March 11 by the Formula E drivers’ group representatives, Lucas di Grassi and reigning world champion Oliver Rowland. In the correspondence, the drivers highlighted a number of on-track incidents and raised concerns about how certain racing situations have been handled by officials.
The group claims that competitors have increasingly felt unheard in discussions with race authorities and governing bodies. They argue that improvements are necessary to ensure the regulations are applied consistently and fairly across all events. The drivers also suggested that there may be a disconnect between the style of racing in Formula E — which features close competition and unique race formats — and the current approach taken in officiating decisions.
Motorsport outlet The Race has revealed details from the letter and reported that Ben Sulayem is expected to make a rare appearance at the upcoming sixth round of the season. The event will take place at Jarama, marking a new addition to the championship calendar this weekend. His presence at the venue is seen as a direct response to the drivers’ collective concerns and the seriousness of the situation.
In addition to the formal letter, several drivers who chose to remain anonymous have reportedly voiced deeper concerns about leadership within the championship. According to the same publication, some competitors have stated that they have “little or no professional faith” in certain senior officials involved in Formula E governance. These remarks indicate that dissatisfaction may extend beyond isolated incidents and could reflect broader frustrations within the paddock.
The unified action from all 20 drivers is being viewed as a rare demonstration of solidarity in professional motorsport. It is uncommon for an entire grid to jointly address regulatory concerns in such a direct manner. Their coordinated approach suggests that the issues raised are widely felt across teams and nationalities, rather than being limited to individual disputes.
In response to the correspondence, a spokesperson for the FIA issued a statement emphasizing ongoing communication with championship stakeholders. The governing body confirmed that it remains in regular contact with manufacturers, teams, and drivers regarding a range of topics related to the championship’s operation and development.
The FIA also stated that it is reviewing the sporting-related comments raised by the drivers. The organization reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards within Formula E and to continuing efforts to develop and invest in the series. According to the statement, the governing body aims to ensure the championship evolves in a way that supports fairness, safety, and competitive integrity.
While no immediate changes have been announced, the situation highlights growing attention on governance and stewarding processes within the championship. The upcoming round at Jarama may serve as an important opportunity for dialogue between drivers and officials, particularly if Ben Sulayem’s attendance facilitates direct discussions.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how the FIA responds to the drivers’ concerns and whether any structural adjustments will follow. The collective letter represents a notable moment in the championship’s history, signaling that drivers are seeking stronger collaboration and greater transparency in decision-making processes moving forward.
