FIA announce CONTROVERSIAL changes in official…read more
The FIA has announced a series of controversial changes following the conclusion of the 2024 Formula 1 season. The final race at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked the end of the longest season in the sport’s history. While Max Verstappen clinched his fourth consecutive title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, McLaren won their first Constructors’ Championship since 1998, with Lando Norris taking victory in Abu Dhabi. Ferrari finished second, and Red Bull, despite Verstappen’s dominance, struggled in third place due to poor performances from Sergio Perez.
The 2024 season was filled with controversy, including fierce debates over driver penalties and public disagreements between Verstappen and the FIA regarding both on-track and off-track behavior. In response to the mounting criticism of its role in the sport, the FIA has decided to implement significant changes to its structure and processes, particularly concerning the powers of its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
One of the most controversial changes involves the governance of the FIA’s Ethics Committee. New amendments now grant more power to Sulayem by requiring that all investigations be approved by him, along with Carmelo Sanz De Barros, the president of the FIA Senate, before they can proceed further. Previously, the committee could conduct investigations independently. The new procedure restricts the FIA Administration’s involvement, thereby centralizing decision-making within the presidency.
The FIA outlined three primary reasons for the changes. First, they aim to preserve and enhance the independence of the Ethics Committee by reducing the administrative influence of the FIA. Second, the changes are intended to streamline the investigative process, ensuring that sensitive matters are reviewed by the highest levels of governance. Finally, the amendments are designed to ensure greater transparency and consistency in how the FIA handles disciplinary and ethical issues, aiming to improve the perception of fairness within the sport.
These amendments come after a season in which the FIA faced heavy criticism, particularly related to its handling of driver penalties and controversial decisions. The decision to empower the FIA president has sparked concern among critics, who fear it could lead to an increase in centralized control over the sport. Nonetheless, the FIA insists that these measures are in the best interests of maintaining integrity and independence within Formula 1’s governance.
