From furious drivers to dismissed officials, discover FIA’s latest scandals

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is grappling with significant challenges as it heads toward its leadership elections set for December 2025. Current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is preparing for his re-election campaign.

However, his term has been overshadowed by a series of scandals and notable resignations, casting doubt on the governance of the organization. Ben Sulayem took office in 2021, succeeding Jean Todt.

From the beginning of his presidency, controversies began to mount. A pivotal moment came in 2022 when the FIA enforced a ban on drivers wearing jewelry and mandated checks on fireproof undergarments during Formula 1 events.

This move sparked outrage among drivers and heightened tensions between the governing body and the competitors. Recent events have further complicated the FIA’s reputation.

In early 2024, accusations emerged suggesting that Ben Sulayem attempted to manipulate the outcome of certain Formula 1 races. Specifically, he was alleged to have intervened in the time penalty imposed on Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Although the FIA’s ethics committee investigated and cleared him of any wrongdoing, the mere existence of these allegations raised concerns regarding the integrity of FIA leadership. High-profile resignations have also contributed to the turmoil within the FIA.

In May 2024, CEO Natalie Robyn stepped down, citing governance and financial issues. Just a year later, she voiced concerns over serious structural challenges that threatened the organization’s credibility.

Additionally, the unexpected dismissal of F1 race director Niels Wittich in November 2024 triggered backlash from drivers and highlighted internal discord. Senior officials like Tim Mayer and F2 race director Janette Tan followed suit, departing under unclear circumstances.

Mayer publicly criticized the working conditions established under Ben Sulayem. The FIA’s attempts to regulate driver conduct intensified prevailing discontent.

Regulations targeting inappropriate language during team communications and press events reached new heights. Max Verstappen faced penalties for swearing during an FIA event, igniting a fierce debate among drivers across various series who felt stifled by these measures.

Another alarming development occurred when several high-ranking FIA officials were excluded from a World Motor Sport Council meeting in February 2025 due to their refusal to sign a non-disclosure agreement. This incident ultimately led to the resignation of deputy president Robert Reid in April, who described a “breakdown of governance standards” within the organization.

As tensions rise, motorsport observers speculate about potential challengers for the FIA presidency. Rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr. is reportedly contemplating a bid against Ben Sulayem.

He will need to secure a majority vote in the FIA General Assembly if he decides to enter the race. As the FIA approaches its upcoming elections, the organization must confront numerous internal challenges and public scrutiny.

The awareness of these scandals and their impact on the future of the FIA will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of motor racing governance as it moves forward.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.