In a stunning turn of events, Frédéric Vasseur, the team principal of Alfa Romeo Racing, has publicly criticized the FIA for what he described as a “strange” penalty imposed on Lewis Hamilton during the 2023 Miami Grand Prix. Vasseur’s comments have sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community, with many questioning whether the FIA’s decision was fair and consistent with its usual rulings. The controversy surrounding Hamilton’s penalty was already a hot topic, but Vasseur’s bold remarks have taken the situation to a whole new level.
Hamilton, who is no stranger to high-pressure situations, was penalized for allegedly exceeding track limits during a key moment of the Miami GP. The decision to impose the penalty, which resulted in a loss of crucial points for the seven-time World Champion, has sparked intense debate. Many believe that the penalty was unnecessarily harsh, given the context of the race and the number of similar incidents that went unpunished in the past. Vasseur, speaking on behalf of the broader Formula 1 community, made it clear that he felt the FIA’s ruling was inconsistent with the governing body’s usual approach.
In his criticism, Vasseur emphasized the need for consistency in the application of rules and pointed out that similar offenses had not been penalized in previous races. He argued that the FIA should have been more lenient with Hamilton, who was already in a challenging position during the race. Vasseur’s words were sharp, calling out the governing body for what he perceived as an unfair decision that tarnished the credibility of the sport. His comments have ignited a fierce debate, with some agreeing with him, while others believe that the penalty was justified and in line with the rules.
However, the most jaw-dropping part of this saga came when FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem responded to Vasseur’s criticism with just six words that left both the Alfa Romeo boss and the F1 world speechless. In an unexpected and curt reply, Ben Sulayem simply stated, “The rules are the rules, always.” This brief yet firm statement has added fuel to the fire, leaving many questioning whether the FIA will address the concerns raised by Vasseur or stand by its controversial decision.
Ben Sulayem’s response was both a direct defense of the FIA’s authority and an indication that the governing body would not back down in the face of criticism. His words have left many in the F1 community stunned, as they now wonder if the FIA is willing to reconsider its stance on the penalty or if this will become another chapter in the ongoing debate over consistency and fairness in the sport.
As the fallout from this exchange continues, both Vasseur and Ben Sulayem will undoubtedly feel the pressure. For Vasseur, the challenge will be maintaining his stance on the issue without alienating the FIA or other teams, while Ben Sulayem will have to navigate the growing backlash and ensure that the FIA’s decisions remain in line with the expectations of both fans and drivers. The controversy over Hamilton’s penalty is far from over, and with both sides standing firm, the stage is set for a dramatic few weeks ahead in Formula 1.
