What happened a few weeks ago, particularly following the penalty given to Max Verstappen for using a swear word in the press conference in Singapore, marked a definitive breaking point between the drivers and the FIA.
Despite all the mitigating circumstances, the federation decided to impose community service on the Dutch driver, who, unsurprisingly, did not take the matter well.
On November 7, the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers’ Association) released a strong statement against the FIA, also urging President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to reconsider his public language.
Asked about the issue during the Las Vegas weekend, Toto Wolff and Frederic Vasseur, who also “suffered” a similar incident last year, commented: “I have to be careful what I say here because last year Fred and I were summoned by the Race Stewards,” the Austrian began sarcastically.
“Can we play the joker and not respond? We’re in a privileged position for this sport and attract fans from the best demographic, if you can say that, the younger ones. We race in front of full grandstands, and there is a lot of interest from sponsors. What we need to do is all pull in the same direction and manage our product carefully. I believe that all those in decision-making positions must remember that we are responsible for this sport and that we need stability. That’s how I see it.” – the Mercedes team principal pointed out during the press conference for the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
“(The situation) is quite critical, and I think it’s important that we, who have a voice that will be heard, handle it with the same care that all of us must have. In recent years, there’s been a media battle. One word was said, and another came as a response. And I don’t think we should be throwing ourselves at each other like this. But being in a room and saying: this is what we think is best for the sport? What’s beyond a personality or a team? I believe that this should be the starting point for the drivers.” – Toto Wolff added.
Frederic Vasseur steps back
Unlike his colleague, Ferrari’s number one preferred not to be too outspoken on the issue, although he did highlight the inconsistencies of recent times: “It’s a bit of a strange topic for me because now that we’re at the end of the season, these are probably the three toughest races to manage: Las Vegas, if you remember last year, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, the final race of the championship.” – the French manager stated.
“The timing is strange because of this, for me. But I’m not behind the scenes of the discussion with the FIA, so I don’t want to take a stance on this, but the timing is strange.” – Frederic Vasseur concluded.
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