George Russell: F1 Swearing Row – Mercedes Driver Speaks Out
- Formula 1 drivers are raising questions about recent rule changes implemented by the FIA, particularly regarding the role of President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
- Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton described the situation as "ridiculous," adding, "It seems a bit of a mess there at the moment.
- Max Verstappen of Red Bull, who faced punishment last year for swearing, offered a slightly more positive view, calling the changes "a bit better - it's a start."
George Russell, the Mercedes F1 driver, has ignited a debate, voicing his concerns regarding the FIA’s recent rule adjustments and questioning President Ben Sulayem‘s leadership. Russell didn’t hold back, signaling a deeper divide within the sport. He criticized the lack of communication from the FIA’s top brass and expressed worries about Ben Sulayem’s moves to maintain control. Russell openly backed Carlos Sainz Sr. for the FIA presidential election,viewing his motorsport expertise as a boon. News Directory 3 is following this story closely. With drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen also weighing in, the stage is set for potential regulatory shifts. Discover what’s next for the FIA and the future of F1.
F1 Drivers question FIA rule changes and Ben Sulayem’s Role
Updated May 31, 2025
Formula 1 drivers are raising questions about recent rule changes implemented by the FIA, particularly regarding the role of President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The changes, announced Wednesday, were intended to improve the sport, but some drivers remain skeptical.
Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton described the situation as ”ridiculous,” adding, “It seems a bit of a mess there at the moment. There’s lots of changes that are needed, for sure.”
Max Verstappen of Red Bull, who faced punishment last year for swearing, offered a slightly more positive view, calling the changes “a bit better – it’s a start.”
George Russell expressed deeper concerns during media day at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. “We’ve still had no correspondence with anyone from the senior level at the FIA. So yeah, it’s all a bit suspect,” Russell said. He alluded to controversies surrounding Ben Sulayem, including attempts to extend his control over the governing body.
Russell noted the difficulty in communicating with the FIA president.”It seems more challenging than it should be really, but we’ve all put our views forward,” he stated. “I wouldn’t say it’s gotten to a point of no return, but you at least want to see willingness from the other party.”
McLaren’s Oscar Piastri acknowledged the positive aspects of the FIA’s adjustments.”The fact there has been changes made is good,” Piastri said. “the stewards have a lot more control now… which is good because the circumstances definitely need to be taken into account.” He added that addressing abuse of officials was “very fair and reasonable.”
russell also voiced his support for rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr. in the upcoming FIA presidential election in December.sainz is the father of Williams driver carlos Sainz Jr.
“It could only benefit the sport having carlos with the inside knowledge of Formula 1 from a driver’s outlook and then Carlos Sr’s knowledge from motorsport generally. It could be a brilliant recipe,” Russell said.
Russell dismissed potential conflicts of interest due to Sainz Jr.’s position as a GPDA director. He argued that the FIA president’s role should be less visible, focusing on behind-the-scenes work, similar to jean Todt’s tenure.
What’s next
The FIA will likely address the drivers’ concerns in the coming weeks, possibly leading to further adjustments in the regulations and a clarification of the president’s role.