In a stunning display of solidarity, all 20 Formula One drivers have come together to issue a scathing joint statement directed at the sport’s governing body, the FIA. The unprecedented move, orchestrated by the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), lambasts the FIA for its handling of recent controversies and demands sweeping changes in the organization’s approach.
Drivers Fed Up with FIA’s “Tone and Language”
The catalyst for this united front was the FIA’s recent crackdown on drivers swearing during press conferences. Both reigning world champion Max Verstappen and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc found themselves on the receiving end of punishments for uttering expletives, a move that left many in the paddock scratching their heads.
“There is a difference between swearing intended to insult others and more casual swearing, such as you might use to describe bad weather, or indeed an inanimate object such as an F1 car or a driving situation,” the GPDA statement asserted.
But the drivers’ grievances extend far beyond the policing of their language. They took direct aim at FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, urging him to “consider his own tone and language when talking to our member drivers, or indeed about them, whether in a public forum or otherwise.”
Calls for Financial Transparency
Perhaps the most damning portion of the statement centers around the FIA’s handling of finances, particularly the allocation of funds collected from driver fines. The GPDA revealed that for the past three years, they have repeatedly called upon the FIA president to provide details and strategy regarding these monetary penalties, but to no avail.
“We once again request the FIA president provides financial transparency and direct, open dialogue with us,” the drivers implored. “All stakeholders [FIA, F1, the teams and the GPDA] should jointly determine how and whether the money is spent for the benefit of the sport.”
A Line in the Sand
The GPDA’s statement marks a significant turning point in the often-fraught relationship between the drivers and the FIA. It’s a line in the sand, a clear message that the competitors who risk their lives each weekend will no longer tolerate being treated like unruly children in need of scolding.
As one team insider confided, “The drivers are the stars of the show. They’re the ones putting on the spectacle that draws in the fans and the sponsors. For the FIA to disrespect them so blatantly, it’s just unacceptable.”
The Ball in FIA’s Court
With the gauntlet thrown down, all eyes now turn to the FIA and how they will respond to this unprecedented show of driver unity. Will Ben Sulayem and his administration heed the call for transparency and respect, or will they dig in their heels and risk further alienating the very athletes who make Formula One the global phenomenon it is?
As the 2024 season enters its final stretch, one thing is certain: the dynamic between the drivers and the FIA has reached a critical juncture. How this plays out could shape the future of Formula One for years to come.
