FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem Discusses the Future of Formula 1
In recent statements, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile), has shed light on pivotal decisions regarding the Formula 1 calendar, particularly the removal of the Russian Grand Prix in 2022. This decision, which followed the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, was not made by the FIA itself but rather by the FOM (Formula One Management), the entity responsible for the commercial rights of the sport. Ben Sulayem clarified this during an interview with a Swedish publication, emphasizing that the decision was driven by external pressures and the need for responsible governance in the face of global crises.
The Decision to Remove the Russian Grand Prix
"The decision to withdraw the Russian Grand Prix came from the FOM," Ben Sulayem stated, making it clear that the FIA was not the primary decision-maker in this instance. As the war in Ukraine began, there was a significant push for the FIA to suspend races in Russia. However, Ben Sulayem was firm in his stance, indicating that he would not compromise the established rules for anyone. This highlights the delicate balance that governing bodies must maintain between commercial interests and ethical responsibilities, particularly in the realm of international sports.
The Future of Racing in Russia
When asked about the possibility of the Russian Grand Prix returning in the future, Ben Sulayem pointed out the importance of adhering to global sports guidelines. "There is a distinction between the commercial side of Formula 1 and motorsport itself. But let’s wait and see. Do you think the war will last forever? I hope not. Many lives are at risk on both sides. I detest war; it’s as simple as that," he expressed. This perspective underscores a broader concern regarding the impact of geopolitical issues on sporting events and the responsibilities of sports organizations in navigating these challenges.
The Balance Between Sport and Business
Ben Sulayem also warned against the dangers of reducing Formula 1 to a mere commercial platform. He stressed that while the sport encompasses entertainment and business, it should not solely function as a profit-generating machine. "If it becomes just that, you lose the essence of the sport. That would signal the beginning of the end," he asserted. His comments reflect a growing concern among sports leaders about maintaining the integrity and spirit of competitive racing in an increasingly commercialized environment.
Tensions with Teams and Commercial Entities
Throughout his presidency, Ben Sulayem has encountered frequent tensions with various teams and the commercial sector of Formula 1, particularly with CEO Stefano Domenicali. Recently, Domenicali dismissed the idea of introducing a 12th team into the competition, which contrasts with Ben Sulayem’s ongoing discussions about the potential Andretti-Cadillac entry. "The FIA did what it needed to do, and I had to endure all the criticism. Would I be willing to face it again? Yes, if it’s for the right reasons. Do we need another team? Not necessarily. We need the right team. It’s not about quantity; it’s about quality. But having more teams could certainly spice things up," he commented, indicating his commitment to improving the sport’s competitive landscape.
The Role of Politics in F1
Ben Sulayem also cautioned against the excessive politicization of decisions regarding race locations. He acknowledged the complexities involved in selecting countries to host races, suggesting that overthinking could hinder progress. "If we constantly consider political implications when choosing a country, we won’t get anywhere. Perhaps we should just return to Sweden, where everything is readily available," he joked. His remarks highlight the challenge of balancing political sensitivities with the need for global expansion in motorsport.
He further emphasized that the FIA does not intertwine religion and politics in its decision-making. "For us, it’s about people and motorsport. However, we would never take our people to places that are deemed unsafe," he added. This statement reflects a commitment to safety and ethical considerations in the sport’s operations, resonating with fans and stakeholders alike.
Criticism of the Media
In his discourse, Ben Sulayem took a strong stance against British media, accusing it of engaging in coordinated attacks against his administration. "Unfortunately, it’s not just anonymous individuals behind screens; sometimes it’s journalists looking to boost their sales. I have never encountered a more brutal media landscape than that of the British press. They take pride in their ability to influence political outcomes, but is that truly a success? A country without a prime minister for an extended period is not a positive situation. Ultimately, what matters is the best interest of the people," he remarked. This criticism sheds light on the often contentious relationship between sports leaders and the media, particularly in high-stakes environments like Formula 1.
The Path Forward for Formula 1
As the FIA prepares for Ben Sulayem’s upcoming re-election campaign, the future of Formula 1 remains a topic of considerable interest. With a landscape shaped by both commercial pressures and ethical considerations, the path forward will require careful navigation. Ben Sulayem’s leadership has been characterized by a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport while also recognizing the need for modernization and adaptation in an ever-evolving global context.
His reflections on the interplay between sport, business, and politics underscore the complexities involved in leading a premier racing organization. As the FIA continues to face challenges in the years ahead, the leadership’s ability to balance these various aspects will be crucial in shaping the future of Formula 1 and ensuring its relevance in the modern sporting world.
In conclusion, Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s tenure as FIA President is marked by significant decisions and ongoing dialogues about the future of Formula 1. His insights into the complexities of governance, commercial interests, and the impact of global events provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the sport today. As fans and stakeholders look to the future, the balance of maintaining competitive integrity while navigating external pressures will remain at the forefront of Formula 1’s evolution.
