Lewis Hamilton addressed the FIA after a disagreement arose with Toto Wolff.
Hamilton has a history of making impactful and daring statements regarding the FIA, advocating for underrepresented voices in F1 and the wider motorsport community.
Driven by his strong principles, he might even choose to skip events or intentionally provoke the FIA, which was evident in 2023.
The British driver openly supported Toto Wolff’s wife, Susie, who serves as the managing director of the F1 Academy, taking a firm stance against the world motorsport governing body.
The FIA initiated an inquiry into the power couple concerning a purported conflict of interest, but quickly concluded the investigation.
The allegations originated from a baseless claim in a magazine, suggesting that competitors felt their relationship posed a conflict of interest. Both individuals adamantly refuted the existence of any such issue, and the FIA ended their investigation on Thursday.
Despite this, the former F1 driver proceeded to file her own legal case against the organization, with Hamilton fully supporting Mrs. Wolff.
Although the 39-year-old attended the FIA Gala last year, he directed his criticism at ‘certain individuals’ and declined to accept the trophy he had won for finishing third in the Drivers’ Championship.
Hamilton expressed: “It has been a difficult week and quite disappointing.
“Seeing the governing body questioning the integrity of one of the most remarkable female leaders in our sport, Susie Wolff, without any proof and merely saying ‘sorry’ afterwards is unacceptable.”
“There is an ongoing struggle to enhance diversity and inclusion in the industry. It appears that some leaders within the FIA consistently attempt to hinder our progress whenever we make an effort to advance, and this needs to be addressed.
” Since he made that statement in support of Susie, there have been developments. Hamilton, who had not won a Grand Prix for two years, has since secured two additional victories, bringing his total to 105.
Toto Wolff published a declaration after the deletion of the FIA investigation, reporting his intention to continue a complete explanation. \ “We are currently in active legal exchange with the FIA, \” He has read. “We expect full transparency about what happened and why and expressly reserve all legal rights.”
While Susie’s trial is still ongoing, the Wolffs have been seen together in the paddock and appeared unfazed by the allegations against them.
Hamilton also left Mercedes to join Ferrari, ending his 12-year association with the Silver Arrows. But his efforts to defend Suzy were certainly appreciated by the Scot, who paid tribute to the seven-time world champion ahead of his final race in Abu Dhabi.
With the season’s awards ceremony taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, Hamilton will be glad to be free of the speaking duties as he prepares for the off-season.
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