Bernie Ecclestone, former F1 supremo, has stepped back into the fray to voice his support for Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA president caught in a whirlwind of controversy. Ben Sulayem, who took the FIA’s reins just before the 2022 season, alleges he’s facing opposition from elements within the F1 community, hinting at a power struggle with Liberty Media, the sport’s commercial rights holder.
“Do they really think big manufacturers would make their own championship that doesn’t have a regulator?” questions Ben Sulayem in a discussion with motorsport-magazin.com. He emphasizes the necessity of having clear rules for the sport, likening the situation to a show that needs governance. “We can have a show, but with government – a show with rules.”
Ben Sulayem’s tenure has been marred by allegations of sexism and bullying, further complicated by a recent controversy involving Toto and Susie Wolff. However, Ecclestone, intensely familiar with the inner workings of F1’s leadership, comes to his defense in an interview with Sport Bild. “He just does things differently than they were done before,” says Ecclestone, adding, “He also does things differently than I would do them. But in my eyes, he is a straightforward man who tries to do the best for the sport. His bad reputation comes from people not understanding him.”
Ecclestone also sheds light on Ben Sulayem’s learning curve in dealing with F1’s unique team dynamics. “He’s just learning that the people who lead a team in this sport are different to what he thought they were.”
Facing these challenges head-on, Ben Sulayem asserts his resilience and perspective on his role. “We need to understand who I represent,” he states. “And we are not a service provider. I represent the head of the house.” He views the ongoing frictions as potentially beneficial, akin to the body signaling issues through pain. “But, like you said, friction is sometimes healthy to bring out the best. It’s like with your body. If you wake up in the morning with pain, then at least you know that something is wrong.”
