FIA justifies use of funds from F1 fines

The FIA has sought to reassure drivers about the use of funds from fines in Formula 1. The move follows a request from the GPDA (Formula 1 Grand Prix Drivers' Association) for greater transparency from the organization.

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The issue of fines imposed on drivers was one of the points that caused a sense of unease among drivers last season, with them expressing increasing frustration about the management of FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

During the 2024 season, approximately 270,000 euros were collected due to more than 50 infringements, excluding suspended fines. These infringements included speeding in the pit lane, obstructions, driving cars in a dangerous condition, crossing the active track, or the use of swear words, the latter being a recent point of attention for the FIA.

George Russell, director of the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers’ Association), is among the drivers who have requested more transparency on the use of these funds. “When we heard from the FIA a few years ago during the presidential elections, they talked about transparency,” said the Mercedes driver.

« The way the money would be reinvested in grassroots sports, which we all support. We simply want transparency and an understanding of what was initially promised. »

Where do the collected funds go?

Speaking exclusively to Autosport, Nikolas Tombazis, head of single-seater racing at the FIA, explained that all funds generated by fines finance the FIA’s grassroots sports projects and social initiatives, which benefited from over €10 million in investments last year.

« The FIA is not a profit-driven organization », said Nikolas Tombazis. « We do not have shareholders monitoring stock market figures hoping for an increase in share prices or dividends. Therefore, all money is spent on aspects considered beneficial, whether it’s for safety, grassroots motor racing, or sometimes other road safety-related projects. »

« This issue is sometimes influenced by the emotion of the moment, depending on the fine under discussion. I understand that anyone who pays a fine may feel upset, but I can assure you that this money is not used for Christmas parties or anything else », he defends.

« The funds spent on grassroots sports far exceed the accumulated fines, which shows that this money has a positive impact. I think it would be difficult to find projects at the FIA that do not have a component related to grassroots motorsport or a social impact. »

« What I can say with certainty is that fines from drivers in one discipline do not subsidize another discipline or category. However, when it comes to initiatives like our campaigns against online abuse, grassroots sport projects, or safety initiatives, these funds directly contribute to noble goals.

Support FIA projects

Nikolas Tombazis emphasized that the FIA’s grassroots sports projects are essential for training the next generation of officials and drivers, by reducing barriers to entry in disciplines like karting.

Approximately 10.3 million euros are spent on grassroots sports, in many clubs and countries, to promote a range of projects related to initial motorsport activities. It’s very important, he explained.

« The health of Formula 1 largely depends on the overall appeal of motorsport. It’s not just about having an exciting Grand Prix, but also encouraging more people to participate, even at a relatively low level, in their country. This will ultimately benefit F1. »

« The other objective is to allow drivers to advance in the hierarchy, even if they do not come from a wealthy family. That is the key objective », he concludes.

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