HOT NEWS: Frédéric Vasseur Slams FIA Over Hamilton’s Penalty – Ben Sulayem’s Response Stuns All
In a dramatic twist following the Miami Grand Prix, Ferrari Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur publicly criticized the FIA for what he called a “strange and inconsistent” penalty imposed on Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion received a time penalty that dropped him out of the points, sparking controversy across the paddock.
Vasseur, known for his usually measured tone, didn’t hold back. “I’ve seen a lot in F1, but this penalty makes no sense. It sets a worrying precedent,” he stated. “We need consistency, not confusion.” While Vasseur’s comments might seem surprising given his role at Ferrari and Hamilton being a rival, insiders say he’s deeply concerned about the sport’s credibility.
The penalty in question came after a controversial incident where Hamilton was judged to have gained an unfair advantage during a tight battle. However, several drivers and team principals argued it was a racing incident and should have gone unpunished.
The real shock came when FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem issued a short, sharp response: “The rules apply to everyone, always equally.” The six-word reply sent shockwaves through the F1 community, as it was interpreted both as a defense of the FIA’s decision and a subtle warning to critics.
The clash between Vasseur and the FIA highlights growing tension over race officiating, with many calling for a review of how penalties are assessed. Fans took to social media, some praising Vasseur for speaking out, others defending the FIA’s stance.
As F1 heads to the next race, the fallout from Miami continues to simmer, with calls growing louder for more transparency and fairness in race decisions. One thing is clear: the debate over Hamilton’s penalty is far from over.