In 2024, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem was more often in the spotlight than not. The Emirati faced multiple controversies, the latest being his new role as the head of the ethics committee. However, former F1 driver and FIA steward Vitantonio Liuzzi continues to express confidence in Ben Sulayem.
FIA President Ben Sulayem caused quite a stir in 2024. He frequently commented on the coarse language of the drivers, even imposing restrictions. Several top figures also left the FIA, resulting in a significant departure of personnel under his leadership. His most recent controversy arose in December when it was announced that Ben Sulayem would take over the leadership of the FIA’s ethics committee.
Despite these controversies, the Emirati still enjoys support, particularly from FIA steward Vitantonio Liuzzi. “I can’t really say much. There’s clearly a lot of discussion about his position. It might change a bit. I’m sure the president talks a lot with the teams because we all want things to move forward in a better way,” the former Red Bull driver shared on The Inside Line podcast.
‘Best Solution for All’
Liuzzi even seems to defend Ben Sulayem’s actions. “I’m sure the president is talking with Formula 1 to find the best solution for all of us. Of course, we would prefer a slightly different position, but whatever the decision is, it will be good for both of us. By both of us, I mean Formula 1 and FIA.”
