F1 Drivers Voice Frustration Over FIA's Lack of Transparency and Communication

F1 Drivers Voice Frustration Over FIA's Lack of Transparency and Communication

By Michael Harrison

November 24, 2024 at 03:54 AM

Formula 1 drivers are expressing growing frustration with the FIA's lack of transparency and communication, particularly regarding the recent unexpected removal of race director Niels Wittich with just three races remaining in the season.

The tension escalated after the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA) sent an open letter requesting more transparency from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem about the allocation of monetary fines. This letter has yet to receive a response.

Racing driver Lewis Hamilton in Mercedes suit

Racing driver Lewis Hamilton in Mercedes suit

GPDA chairman George Russell emphasized that drivers are often the last to learn about important decisions affecting them directly. He noted that while there were concerns about Wittich's decisions, simply "hiring and firing" without collaboration isn't an effective solution.

Key driver concerns include:

  • Lack of consultation on major decisions
  • Poor timing of Wittich's replacement
  • Absence of communication from FIA leadership
  • Multiple departures of senior FIA personnel

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz highlighted the challenging timing of appointing new race director Rui Marques, emphasizing the crucial relationship between drivers and race director. Sainz stressed the importance of maintaining open communication channels for track feedback and safety concerns.

Lewis Hamilton summarized the situation, noting that "everything is falling apart with all the people leaving left, right, and center" at the FIA. Russell concluded that the frequent changes within the FIA have created an unstable environment, making it difficult to implement necessary improvements in the sport.

The drivers remain committed to working with the FIA but express concern about the organization's current direction and its impact on Formula 1's future development.

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