Hamilton seeks a position of influence within FIA's governance in the midst of ongoing controversy.
F1 Drivers Push for More Collaboration with the FIA and Formula 1
Lewis Hamilton, seven-time world champion, is advocating for a closer partnership between Formula 1 drivers, the FIA, and the sport's governing body to ensure that the drivers' voices are heard and heeded, particularly ahead of the Miami Grand Prix.
The recent discontent surrounding FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has highlighted the need for improved communication between the FIA and the drivers. Ben Sulayem's tenure has been met with criticism, as some of his top officials have resigned over governance issues. Furthermore, he has faced criticism from Motorsport UK chair over governance standards, and made changes to ethics and audit committees that have been seen as questionable.
Recently, the FIA has tightened up on rules for drivers, focusing on jewellery, swearing, and underwear, which has created friction with drivers, including Max Verstappen. Hamilton has been vocal about his desire for change, hinting at improving the section of the rules that governs sanctions for swearing, stating "Following constructive feedback, I am considering making improvements to Appendix B".
Historically, the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) has been instrumental in representing drivers' interests. Lewis Hamilton, as a prominent and influential figure in F1, has long been using his platform to address various issues, including safety and rules within the sport.
With the increased effort from both the FIA and drivers to ensure that drivers' voices are heard, collaboration is key. Hamilton echoed these sentiments, stating "Ultimately, we don't hold a power seat at the table and that needs to change, in my opinion. If you look at other sports that have unions, that may be something that comes into play at some stage."
F1 drivers are eager to collaborate and have their voices heard rather than control the sport. Hamilton emphasized that "Ultimately, people making decisions for others that have never been in that position, it's good to have the point of view from the driver's perspective, and that's all we try to give."
Upcoming US races such as the Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas Grand Prix affirm the sport's continued growth and the importance of ensuring effective collaboration between the FIA, Formula 1, and drivers.
With the introduction of new teams like Cadillac for the 2026 season, there is a growing interest in how driver lineups and governance will evolve. Discussions around these new entries highlight the potential for both established and emerging drivers to influence team strategies and overall sport governance.
- Max Verstappen, being a driver, has faced friction with the FIA due to recent rule changes concerning jewelry, swearing, and underwear, joining Lewis Hamilton in advocating for improvements toAppendix B.
- Hamilton, as a prominent figure in F1, has been vocal about the need for drivers' voices to be heard and considered, suggesting that collaboration with the FIA and Formula 1 is critical.
- In the past, the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) has represented drivers' interests effectively, and Hamilton has consistently utilized his platform to address safety, rules, and other issues within the sport.
- As new teams like Cadillac enter the 2026 season, discussions about driver lineups and governance are ongoing, highlighting the potential influence that both established and emerging drivers could have on team strategies and overall sport governance.
