🔥Breaking news: Lewis Hamilton just made a shocking statement when asking the FIA to change the rules after Max Verstappen’s incident and the strong answer came from the FIA president. Details below the comment 👇👇
In a dramatic turn of events at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has ignited a firestorm of controversy by publicly calling for the FIA to overhaul its regulations. The demand comes in the wake of a contentious incident involving reigning champion Max Verstappen and rookie Oliver Bearman during the Australian Grand Prix earlier this season, which prompted a swift rule change ahead of the Miami race. Hamilton’s bold statement, coupled with a pointed response from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has sent shockwaves through the F1 community, raising questions about the sport’s governance and the balance of power between drivers and the governing body.
The incident that sparked this saga occurred in Melbourne, where Haas driver Oliver Bearman pitted under Safety Car conditions, rejoining the track ahead of Verstappen, who was battling for the race lead. The maneuver caused confusion, with Verstappen questioning his race engineer over the radio about Bearman’s positioning. The FIA, recognizing the ambiguity in the existing rules, introduced a new regulation before the Miami Grand Prix to clarify procedures for cars unlapping themselves under Safety Car conditions. This change aimed to prevent similar incidents and ensure fairness in race situations. However, Hamilton, now racing for Ferrari, seized the opportunity to voice broader concerns about the FIA’s decision-making process and its engagement with drivers.
Speaking to the media in Miami, Hamilton argued that F1 drivers deserve a formal role in discussions with the FIA, emphasizing that the current system marginalizes their perspectives. He referenced past controversies, including Verstappen’s punishment for swearing in a 2024 press conference, which had drawn criticism from drivers and fans alike. Hamilton suggested that the FIA’s approach to rule enforcement often feels arbitrary and disconnected from the realities of racing. “We’re the ones out there risking it all,” he said. “We need a seat at the table, not just a pat on the head after decisions are made.” His remarks were a rallying cry for collective action, with Hamilton hinting at the possibility of drivers forming a stronger union, similar to those in other professional sports.
Hamilton’s comments were not made in isolation. They follow months of simmering tension between drivers and the FIA, particularly over penalties for minor infractions like swearing or expressing critical opinions. Verstappen, who was absent from Miami’s pre-race media day due to personal commitments, had previously called such penalties “ridiculous” and imposed a near-silence in FIA press conferences to avoid further sanctions. Hamilton’s push for change also aligns with sentiments expressed by other drivers, including Mercedes’ George Russell, who has advocated for greater transparency in stewarding decisions. The Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), of which Hamilton is a key figure, is reportedly exploring ways to formalize its influence within the sport.
However, Hamilton’s outspoken stance drew a sharp rebuke from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. In a statement that left little room for ambiguity, Ben Sulayem defended the FIA’s authority and dismissed suggestions of a driver-led overhaul. “The FIA exists to uphold the integrity of the sport, not to cater to individual agendas,” he said. “We welcome input, but changes must serve the entire sport, not just the loudest voices.” Ben Sulayem also pointed to the recent rule adjustment as evidence of the FIA’s responsiveness, arguing that the organization is committed to continuous improvement. His response underscored a broader power struggle, with the FIA keen to maintain control over a sport increasingly shaped by outspoken drivers and influential teams.
The clash between Hamilton and Ben Sulayem has polarized opinions within the F1 paddock. Some, including former driver Nico Rosberg, have praised Hamilton for challenging the status quo, arguing that driver input could lead to fairer and more consistent rulings. Others, including Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, cautioned against undermining the FIA’s authority, warning that excessive driver influence could complicate decision-making in a sport already fraught with competing interests. Meanwhile, fans on social media have taken sides, with some accusing Hamilton of overstepping and others lauding his courage in confronting the governing body.
As the 2025 season progresses, the fallout from this confrontation is likely to reverberate. The Miami Grand Prix, where Kimi Antonelli stunned the field by securing pole, provided a temporary distraction, but the underlying issues remain unresolved. Hamilton’s call for reform has reignited debates about the FIA’s role, the enforcement of rules, and the evolving dynamics of driver influence. With Verstappen expected to return for the next race and the GPDA potentially mobilizing, the stage is set for further clashes. For now, Hamilton’s bold stand has ensured that the conversation about F1’s future will not be silenced anytime soon.
