In a dramatic turn of events, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Formula One’s governing body, has finally addressed the swirling controversy surrounding its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The allegations, which involve interference in the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, have cast a shadow over the sport and its integrity.
What are the Allegations on Mohammed Ben Sulayem?
F1’s regulator did release a statement on Tuesday. It read: “The FIA confirms that the compliance officer has received a report detailing potential allegations involving certain members of its governing bodies.
“The compliance department is assessing these concerns, as is common practice in these matters, to ensure that due process is meticulously followed.”
According to a report by the FIA’s compliance officer, Paolo Basarri, Mohammed Ben Sulayem allegedly took steps to overturn a 10-second penalty imposed on Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso during the Saudi GP. The compliance officer’s report has ignited a firestorm of speculation and scrutiny.
The Whistleblower’s Claim
A courageous whistleblower stepped forward, revealing that Mohammed Ben Sulayem directly contacted the FIA’s vice president for sport in the Middle East, Sheikh Abdullah bin Isa al-Khalifa, who was present in Saudi Arabia for the race. The alleged conversation centered on Alonso’s penalty, with Ben Sulayem reportedly advocating for its revocation. The FIA has confirmed the existence of this report and is diligently assessing the concerns1.
Alonso’s penalty, initially imposed for work done on his car while serving a previous 5-second sanction, had dropped him to fourth place. However, the removal of the 10-second penalty catapulted him back to the podium, securing third place behind the Red Bull duo of Sergio Pérez and Max Verstappen. The decision seemed routine at the time, but now it stands under intense scrutiny.
What was Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s Las Vegas Circuit Controversy?
Adding fuel to the fire, another allegation emerged—Ben Sulayem’s alleged involvement in the certification process for the Las Vegas circuit during last year’s Grand Prix. The FIA spokesperson defended the approval, citing adherence to protocol despite delays due to local construction work.
In this high-speed drama, the FIA must tread carefully—a delicate balance between justice and the sport’s reputation. Fans, drivers, and teams await further developments, hoping for clarity and a renewed commitment to the spirit of racing.
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