George Russell denounces FIA's 'instability' after Robert Reid's departure

Between Mohammed Ben Sulayem and the pilots of Formula 1, relations are not at their best, and it doesn't seem likely to improve. The controversial FIA president has been at the center of a new controversy since the abrupt departure of his right-hand man, Robert Reid, on Thursday. The Briton slammed the door, denouncing "a fundamental breakdown in governance standards within the world governing body of motor sport" in a vitriolic statement.

“We are increasingly alarmed that crucial decisions are being made without due process or proper consultation. When I took office, it was to serve the FIA ​​membership, not to serve those in power. Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold, Robert Reid attacks. Decisions are made behind closed doors, without regard for the structures and people the FIA ​​is designed to represent. Leaving the FIA ​​is not easy, but staying would mean compromising what I truly believe in. This is about principles, not politics. Motor sport deserves governance based on integrity, accountability, and respect for process. This is the minimum standard we should all expect and demand.

His departure, as sudden as it was unexpected, did not fail to provoke a reaction from the pilots of Formula 1 from the Bahrain paddock, where they are preparing to contest the fourth round of the season. George Russell, in his capacity as president of the GPDA, the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, denounces this yet another demonstration of instability within the FIA.

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George Russell also charges the FIA

"Unfortunately, not every piece of news about this sport comes as much of a surprise, regrets the pilot MercedesIt's a real shame to see someone who is so respected in this sport, and who has been in it for so long, as we keep saying, wondering what's next.

The Briton calls for more stability, but also seems resigned to the impact the drivers can have on changing the situation.
"It's a shame to see, and I hope we get more stability as soon as possible, sighs number 63. Ultimately, we're getting to a point where these things are happening so often, and as drivers we've tried to get involved in the past, but we haven't really made any progress, and things seem to be continually going in an unstable direction."

"I have to be honest: we're getting to a point where our actions have little impact on these guys, and we have to trust the teams and Formula 1 to work with the FIA ​​to find common ground. If we can help, we're there, but often things seem to go their own way."

Departures have been multiplying in recent months within the FIA, where the climate seems increasingly tense, as Mohammed Ben Sulayem seeks re-election at the end of the year. While no candidate has yet declared himself, the Emirati is threatened by David Richards, one of his most fervent opponents. But at 72, the Briton is past the legal age for being a candidate (70). Between now and the elections in December, things are likely to move quickly, and the climate promises to be stifling at the FIA...

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