The Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), known as the Formula 1 drivers’ union, has issued a direct critique of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The controversy arose following several remarks and penalties issued by the FIA president, who has singled out drivers for their language and behavior during press conferences and official events. This has caused widespread dissatisfaction among drivers, who are calling for a more respectful approach and a change in the tone of penalties.
In a statement, the GPDA urged Ben Sulayem to moderate his tone and refrain from using the media as a platform for disciplinary messages. The drivers, led by figures such as Sebastian Vettel, George Russell, and Alex Wurz, emphasized that these issues should be discussed privately, not in public forums.
A HISTORY OF REPRESENTATION
The GPDA has a long history of advocating for drivers’ interests. Founded in 1961, the organization emerged in response to safety and representation concerns within Formula 1. Although it disbanded in 1982, it was reactivated in 1994 after the tragic accidents at the San Marino Grand Prix. Over the years, iconic figures like Jackie Stewart and Michael Schumacher have led the association, promoting significant improvements in safety conditions and drivers’ rights.
Recently, the GPDA has also ventured into social media, launching an Instagram account with the support of Sebastian Vettel and Alex Wurz. This platform aims to engage fans and provide greater visibility to safety and fairness initiatives for drivers.
CALL FOR MUTUAL RESPECT
The drivers’ association has been clear in its call for the FIA president to moderate his language when referring to drivers. In its statement, the GPDA remarked that, “there is a difference between expletives meant to insult and those casually used to describe racing situations or technical issues”. The drivers feel it is inappropriate to treat them as immature, pointing out that “they are adults and do not need trivial instructions on personal matters, such as wearing jewelry or specific undergarments.”
The GPDA also stressed that Formula 1 drivers are professionals representing the pinnacle of international motorsport, entertaining fans at every race. From their perspective, Ben Sulayem’s comments undermine these athletes’ image, conveying a mistaken impression about their dedication and professionalism within the sport.
CRITICISM OF FINES AND LACK OF TRANSPARENCY
Beyond concerns about treatment, the GPDA has questioned the financial penalties imposed by the FIA, a practice they consider unnecessary and detrimental to the sport. The association has requested greater transparency from the FIA regarding how the funds collected from these fines are managed. “For the past three years, we have asked the FIA president to share details and the strategy for allocating fines and spending these funds,” the GPDA explained in their statement.
The drivers believe these fines are not an appropriate solution and instead suggest that the money could be directed toward projects that benefit the sport, such as funding permanent race stewards, which could improve consistency in on-track decision-making.
WILLINGNESS TO DIALOGUE
Despite the criticism, the GPDA expressed its desire to work together with the FIA to improve the sport. The drivers have reiterated their commitment to promoting Formula 1 constructively and for the benefit of everyone involved: athletes, teams, fans, and the organizations that support the sport. They emphasized that, while differences are evident, they are open to establishing transparent and direct dialogue with the FIA and its president.
The GPDA’s recent statements aim to underscore the need for respect and transparency in the relationship between the FIA and the drivers. The drivers’ association has made it clear that it is committed to defending their interests and pursuing a fairer and more constructive sporting environment.
