Mercedes’ George Russell has expressed that Formula 1 drivers are “a bit fed up” with the leadership of the sport’s governing body, the FIA.
Russell, who also serves as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), revealed that the drivers were caught off guard by the decision to remove race director Niels Wittich three races before the season’s end.
“There are several drivers who feel a bit frustrated with the entire situation, and it seems like things are heading in the wrong direction,” Russell said.
He specifically pointed to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s leadership, adding that while arranging a meeting with Ben Sulayem wasn’t difficult, “having promises fulfilled is another matter.”
These comments come at a time of tension between the drivers and the FIA. Following the Brazilian Grand Prix, the GPDA issued an open letter asking the FIA to treat them “like adults” amid a controversy over drivers swearing in press conferences. The letter also raised concerns about the transparency of how the FIA was using money collected from fines for driving infringements.
Wittich’s departure followed shortly after the letter, and a few days later, FIA compliance officer Paolo Basarri was also dismissed.
Russell explained, “Speaking as a fellow driver, rather than my role with the GPDA, there’s been a sense of wanting to stand united in light of recent events. Ultimately, we just want transparency with the FIA and open dialogue. The removal of Niels is a prime example of us not being involved in these conversations. The letter was our way of putting pressure back on them.”
Russell acknowledged that not all drivers were fully satisfied with Wittich’s performance since he became race director in 2022. The German was replaced by former Formula 2 and Formula 3 race director Rui Marques for the final three races of the season, starting in Las Vegas this weekend.
“There’s no secret that some weren’t happy with the decisions being made, but he did work with us, and we could have helped improve the situation,” said Russell. “Sometimes, just hiring and firing isn’t the solution. We’ll see what this new era brings, but every time a change is made, you have to take a step back before you can move forward.”
McLaren’s Lando Norris added, “I don’t know what’s going on there. Clearly, things aren’t running as smoothly as we’d like.”
Haas driver Kevin Magnussen also echoed Russell’s concerns, saying that the current relationship between the drivers and the FIA feels disconnected compared to the days of former F1 race director Charlie Whiting, who passed away before the 2019 season.
“I compare it to the Charlie Whiting days,” said Magnussen. “He was someone we felt truly connected to, and we knew we were being listened to. Now it feels like it’s more of an ‘us versus them’ situation. It should be a closer relationship because we can help a lot.”
