Formula One teams are pushing for greater accountability from the sport’s governing body following the controversies that marred the Qatar Grand Prix. The decisions made during the event have sparked widespread criticism, prompting McLaren to call for a review of the penalty imposed on Lando Norris.
Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, likened the FIA’s governance to a reality show, while McLaren’s Andrea Stella questioned the ad hoc application of regulations. Max Verstappen emerged victorious at the Lusail circuit, but the FIA faced another storm due to the severity of the penalty given to Norris.
Norris received a 10-second stop-go penalty for failing to slow under waved yellow flags, which were deployed because Alex Albon’s wing mirror had fallen off and was lying on the track. This penalty significantly impacted the race, causing Norris to drop from second to 10th place. While Norris and his team acknowledged the need for a penalty, many, including Stella, questioned its severity.
Stella emphasized the need for proportional and specific penalties to ensure the sport’s integrity. He suggested that the FIA’s approach resembled consulting a dusty rulebook rather than applying regulations thoughtfully. McLaren expects the FIA to review this case and make necessary improvements.
The FIA defended its decision, stating that the penalty was in line with its guidelines, emphasizing the seriousness of safety compromises. However, teams were also concerned about the delay in deploying a safety car to remove Albon’s wing mirror, which led to further incidents and punctures.
The FIA maintained that it followed standard procedures by not deploying the safety car initially. The issue gained significance as it occurred under the new race director, Rui Marques, who replaced Niels Wittich with three races remaining. This change, along with other recent departures of senior figures, has put additional pressure on the FIA and its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Wolff expressed concern that the FIA’s actions could tarnish the sport’s reputation. He stressed the importance of responsibility, accountability, and transparency in governing the sport. Wolff’s comments reflect broader concerns among teams and stakeholders about the FIA’s current direction.
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