FIA President Addresses Growing Tensions Amid Talk of Formula 1 Splitting From the FIA
In a move that underscores growing friction between motorsport’s governing body and its most prestigious series, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has spoken publicly for the first time about the possibility of Formula 1 separating from the FIA. His remarks come amid mounting speculation that F1’s commercial stakeholders are increasingly frustrated with the federation’s direction and regulatory involvement.
Tensions Reaching Boiling Point
For decades, Formula 1 has operated under the governance of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), which sets the sporting and technical regulations for the championship. But in recent years, the relationship between the FIA and F1’s commercial rights holders—Liberty Media, which owns Formula One Management (FOM)—has grown tense.
From disagreements over race officiating and regulatory decisions, to conflicting visions for the sport’s future, the partnership has become more strained than ever.
Whispers of a potential “breakaway”—where F1 would operate independently of the FIA and potentially govern itself or form an alternative regulatory body—have grown louder behind closed doors.
Now, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has responded.
Ben Sulayem Breaks His Silence
In a candid interview during a motorsport summit, Ben Sulayem acknowledged the growing tensions:
“We have heard the rumours, yes. But the FIA’s role is not in question—we are the guardians of motorsport. That includes Formula 1,” he stated.
“But if any party thinks they can better manage the sport without an independent regulator, I welcome them to understand what that really means.”
Ben Sulayem framed the discussion not as a challenge, but as a reality check—suggesting that F1’s desire for autonomy must come with accountability, neutrality, and long-term integrity, something he argues only the FIA can ensure.
Flashpoints in the Power Struggle
The tension hasn’t appeared overnight. Several recent moments have highlighted the strained relationship between the FIA and F1:
- 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: The controversial handling of the race finish under Michael Masi brought global attention to FIA’s race control structure.
- 2023-2024 Team Entry Conflicts: The FIA’s approval of Andretti-Cadillac’s bid to enter F1 was met with resistance from FOM and the existing teams, revealing a deep disconnect in priorities.
- Public Statements and Media Leaks: Ben Sulayem’s public opposition to certain F1 decisions—including race calendar expansions and financial regulations—has frustrated Liberty Media executives who prefer discretion and unity.
The result is a leadership tug-of-war, with both sides posturing for influence over the future of the sport.
Could a Split Actually Happen?
While the idea of F1 splitting from the FIA may sound extreme, it’s not without precedent in global sports. In the late 1990s, F1 already flirted with a breakaway championship before last-minute negotiations restored unity.
This time, the commercial power held by Liberty Media—coupled with F1’s immense global reach—makes such a scenario more feasible than ever. If F1 were to split, it would require the creation of:
- A new independent regulatory framework
- A governance body to oversee rules, stewarding, and safety
- Agreement among the teams, circuits, and sponsors
These are not small tasks, but Liberty Media has the capital and the legal infrastructure to explore them if tensions escalate further.
The FIA’s Warning
Ben Sulayem warned that the absence of an impartial, rules-based regulator would undermine the very essence of sport.
“We are here to protect fairness, consistency, and safety,” he said. “A commercial entity’s priority will always be entertainment and profit. That’s understandable—but who protects the soul of the sport if not us?”
His comments were echoed by other FIA figures, some of whom fear that a fully commercialized F1 without oversight could lead to unpredictable rules enforcement, political manipulation, or diluted competition.
What the Teams Think
Many teams have remained quiet on the record—but paddock sources suggest views are divided.
- Red Bull, Mercedes, and Ferrari are believed to favour some degree of independence from the FIA, particularly in matters of regulation, race control, and financial rules.
- Smaller teams, on the other hand, often rely on the FIA to ensure equal governance and fair access to decision-making.
If a split were to occur, these teams could find themselves caught between commercial pressure and the need for regulatory protection.
A Sport at a Crossroads
As Formula 1 continues its explosive growth—fueled by Netflix, new races, and booming global audiences—the question is no longer just about cars and drivers. It’s about power, identity, and who really controls the future of the sport.
Ben Sulayem’s comments confirm what insiders have known for some time: the relationship between F1 and the FIA is more fragile than it has been in decades. Whether it breaks, or bends, will depend on the months ahead.
Conclusion: Independence or Implosion?
Formula 1 has never been more popular—or more politically charged. The tension between the FIA and Liberty Media isn’t just a bureaucratic dispute; it’s a battle for the soul of the sport.
As the FIA president stands firm and Liberty Media quietly weighs its options, fans, teams, and sponsors are left to wonder:
Would a split liberate Formula 1—or destroy what makes it a sport in the first place?