FIA Clears President of Interference Claims in Formula 1 Races
Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, has dismissed allegations of interference against its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, regarding races held in Saudi Arabia and Las Vegas last season.
The accusations involved claims that Ben Sulayem intervened to reverse a penalty imposed on Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Additionally, a whistleblower alleged that the president instructed officials not to certify the Las Vegas circuit for last year’s race.
However, following an extensive investigation, the FIA announced that there was no evidence to support these claims. The FIA Ethics Committee conducted a thorough review, involving a 30-day investigation and interviews with 11 witnesses. Ultimately, the committee unanimously concluded that there was no substantiated evidence of interference involving Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
In a statement, the FIA emphasized that concerns over potential interference were taken seriously and promptly addressed. The organization highlighted the transparency and cooperation exhibited by Ben Sulayem throughout the investigation process, expressing appreciation for his compliance.
The FIA’s declaration of Ben Sulayem’s exoneration comes after a meticulous and wide-ranging inquiry, which aimed to uphold the integrity and fairness of Formula 1 competitions. With the president cleared of any wrongdoing, the focus can now return to the upcoming races with renewed confidence in the governing body’s commitment to upholding the sport’s principles.