FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem defends the decision to increase fines for Formula 1 participants to 1 million euros, despite criticism from drivers. In response to the criticism, Ben Sulayem emphasizes that the cost of participating in Formula 1 has significantly increased, justifying the need for higher fines.
The recent announcement by the FIA to increase the maximum fines for participants in various racing categories, including Formula 1, has sparked controversy. Many Formula 1 drivers, including GPDA chairman George Russell, have expressed their concerns that the fines are excessive and unaffordable for some drivers.
However, Mohammed Ben Sulayem stands by the decision to increase the maximum fines. He argues that the financial landscape of Formula 1 has changed dramatically, with teams now valued in the billions of euros. The rules and fines need to reflect this reality and ensure fair competition within the sport.
According to Ben Sulayem, the intention behind the increased fines is not to punish participants arbitrarily, but to reinforce the importance of adhering to the rules. To avoid fines, participants simply need to follow the rules and avoid unnecessary penalties. The FIA president emphasizes the need for effective rule enforcement and hopes that participants can make the stewards’ job easier by complying with the regulations.
While Ben Sulayem does not provide specific examples of behavior that would warrant a 1 million euro fine, he reiterates that clarity and transparency in the rules are crucial. The stewards, who possess extensive experience in the sport, will be responsible for determining when such a fine is appropriate.
Ben Sulayem dismisses concerns over drivers’ financial capacity to pay the fines, stating that the focus should be on adherence to the rules rather than the monetary aspect. The FIA aims to govern the sport effectively, and strong enforcement of the rules is necessary to maintain fairness and integrity.
In conclusion, the decision to increase fines for Formula 1 participants has received criticism from drivers. However, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem defends the decision, citing the rising costs associated with the sport. By adhering to and respecting the rules, drivers can avoid unnecessary penalties and fines. The FIA aims to ensure that the rules are clear and transparent, enabling effective governance and fair competition.