Formula 1 Driver George Russell Voices Concerns over FIA Governance Amidst Resignation of Robert Reid

George Russell, the Mercedes driver and president of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), has expressed his concerns about the direction the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is heading in. The FIA recently experienced a significant shakeup when Robert Reid, its deputy president for sport, resigned over alleged breakdowns in governance standards.

Robert Reid’s Resignation and Its Impact on the FIA

In an open letter to the drivers, Reid explained his decision to step down. The news came as a surprise to many, including Russell, who stated that they were yet to discuss the matter with him. Russell expressed his disappointment, stating that such incidents are becoming increasingly frequent and that their efforts to engage with the FIA in the past have yielded little results.

The GPDA has been advocating for a more active role in decision-making processes within the sport. However, under the leadership of president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA seems to be charting its own course. In his resignation statement, Reid expressed alarm over critical decisions being made without due process over the past four years.

Reid’s resignation letter highlighted a growing disconnect between the FIA and its members. He criticized decisions being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent. Reid emphasized that his resignation was not about personalities but about principles, calling for leadership that is accountable, transparent, and member-driven.