Formula E drivers take a stand against the FIA

The rebellion of the twenty pilots of Formula E is grumbling against the FIA. The governing body, already criticized for similar reasons by stakeholders in the Formula 1is once again in the spotlight, this time in the 100% electric category. The issues at hand are the inconsistency of the commissaires' decisions, a contested race direction, and a poor application of the sporting regulations deemed inadequate by the athletes.

Frustrated by the situation, the entire field recorded their grievances in a letter addressed directly to President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, delivered by Lucas di Grassi (representing the drivers) and Oliver Rowland (the reigning world champion), reveals The Race.

While the plaintiffs readily acknowledge the " year-on-year efforts and improvements by the local sports authorities (ASN), the track commission, security, track condition, technical fairness and general protocols "Some crucial points still leave something to be desired. Thus, they were keen to formally express [their] shared and growing concern regarding the current level, regularity and procedural consistency of the race stewards and race direction within the championship »

Like their Formula 1 counterparts, Formula E drivers are demanding improved consistency in decision-making regarding race incidents, but above all, they are calling for a change to the Stewards Panel. As a reminder, this panel is composed of four members, three of whom are appointed by the FIA: the Stewards Chairman, an international Steward, and, crucially, a driver advisor who brings their recent racing experience to the deliberations. The final seat is held by the local National Sporting Authority (ASN). Those most directly affected are now demanding " the appointment of advisory drivers with direct experience in Formula E ».

 

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On the other hand, the signatories are demanding a " Internal assessment of the race director's understanding and reasoning regarding sporting rules ", further emphasizing that Without the ability – and the humility – to recognize one's mistakes and learn from them, there is little evidence of continuous improvement.They also argue for conducting an independent audit on the consistency of the sports commissioner "as well as for the publication of clearer and championship-specific commissariat guidelines and the creation of error correction mechanisms in the process of applying and notifying penalties.

These reprimands are reminiscent of the incident at the 2025 Tokyo E-Prix, where Jake Dennis received a black flag for entering the pit lane, which he and his team believed to be open, while race control believed they had closed it. Dennis considered this penalty very harsh at the time and was consequently disqualified. Indeed, according to Article 16.3 of the Formula E regulations, the stewards can impose a time penalty (5 or 10 seconds), a " drive through » (non-stop pit stop) or a « Stop-and-Go » (mandatory 10-second pit stop) for this type of dispute.

In the history of the discipline, only two drivers have received black flags, the first being Lucas di Grassi at the London E-Prix in 2021, after failing to serve his penalty. drive through ».

Through a spokesperson, the FIA ​​responded to the competitors' complaints. We are currently reviewing the feedback on sporting issues recently raised by the drivers, and we will continue this same proactive approach to developing and investing in this championship, in order to ensure the highest standards are maintained. »

However, the front is far from united in the paddock. According to information from RacingNews365Meanwhile, the Formula E teams and constructors (FETAMA) have written their own letter, distancing themselves from the drivers' point of view. Tense atmosphere.

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