Lewis Hamilton has voiced his strong support for Susie Wolff, director of the F1 Academy and wife of Mercedes Formula 1 team boss Toto Wolff, after she initiated criminal proceedings against the FIA in French courts. Hamilton lauded Wolff’s “bravery” in taking legal action following statements made against her by motorsport’s governing body.
Wolff’s legal move, announced Wednesday, is a direct response to an FIA investigation launched in December. This investigation, which focused on allegations of shared confidential information between the Wolffs, was swiftly closed after just 48 hours due to denials from all nine other F1 teams, who refuted lodging any formal complaint. Despite the FIA dropping its probe, Susie Wolff has decided to pursue legal avenues, commencing action on March 4.
During a media session at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, Hamilton expressed his unwavering support for Wolff. He used the platform to criticize the FIA and the pervasive lack of accountability within Formula 1.
“I’m incredibly proud of Susie Wolff,” Hamilton stated emphatically. “She’s so brave, and she stands for such great values. She’s such a leader. And in a world where often people are silenced, for her to be standing up sends such a great message.”
Image alt text: Ferrari F1 driver Charles Leclerc driving during Bahrain pre-season testing, showcasing Mercedes F1 rival team.
Hamilton further elaborated on the significance of Wolff’s decision to take her fight outside of the internal F1 structure. “I love that she’s taken it out of this (F1) world to fight it from the outside because there is a real lack of accountability here within this sport, within the FIA. Things that are happening behind closed doors, there is no transparency, there is clearly no accountability.”
He highlighted the broader implications of Wolff’s stance, particularly within the traditionally male-dominated environment of Formula 1. Hamilton pointed out the concerning message being sent when individuals who file complaints face potential repercussions. “It is still a male-dominated sport. And we are living in a time where the message is: ‘If you file a complaint, you will be fired,’” he said. “And that is a terrible narrative to be projecting to the world, especially when we’re talking about inclusivity.”
When questioned about whether he still held confidence in FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Hamilton’s response was stark: “Never has.”
This statement comes in the wake of the FIA ethics committee clearing Ben Sulayem of allegations of interference. These allegations included claims that he intervened to overturn a penalty for Fernando Alonso at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and attempted to prevent the certification of the Las Vegas Grand Prix circuit.
Image alt text: F1 drivers Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing and Lando Norris of McLaren talking at Bahrain pre-season test press conference, highlighting top Formula 1 teams.
Despite the off-track controversies, Hamilton remains focused on the season ahead. He expressed confidence in Mercedes’ ability to improve the performance of their W15 car and aim for podium finishes and race wins. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, last achieved a race victory at the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. He has twice won the Australian Grand Prix, most recently in 2015.
Image alt text: Charles Leclerc driving his Ferrari F1 car at the Monaco Grand Prix, representing Formula 1 competition.
Susie Wolff’s legal battle against the FIA and Hamilton’s outspoken support highlight significant questions surrounding governance, accountability, and transparency within Formula 1. As the season progresses, the ramifications of this situation, particularly for Mercedes F1 and the broader sport, will be closely watched.
