FIA President Faces Backlash Over Driver Criticism and Leadership Decisions

Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s governance style and comments rejecting driver concerns have drawn scrutiny from Formula 1 drivers and stakeholders.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem dismissed Formula 1 drivers' calls for transparency, stating that internal FIA matters are 'none of their business.'
Drivers, represented by the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), have criticized the lack of transparency regarding FIA funds and high-profile staff departures, including race director Niels Wittich.
Ben Sulayem defended his leadership, emphasizing his authority to make personnel changes and asserting that drivers should focus on racing rather than governance.
Tension has escalated following stricter enforcement of rules on swearing, jewelry, and conduct, which drivers have described as overly controlling and inconsistent.
Despite criticism, Ben Sulayem highlighted the FIA's financial investments in grassroots motorsport and denied personally ordering recent staff dismissals, attributing them to departmental decisions.