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The FIA has formally recognised GM Performance Power Units LLC. – a joint venture between General Motors and TWG Motorsports – as an official power unit supplier for the Formula One World Championship beginning in 2029. Until GM's engines are fully homologated and ready for competition, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, set to enter the grid in 2026, will initially use Ferrari-supplied power units. The approval marks a major step forward in GM’s ambitions to establish a foothold in the pinnacle of motorsport, aligning with its ongoing partnership with Andretti Global. This development adds a fresh name to the F1 engine supplier roster, setting the stage for increased competition and innovation. When the 2029 season approaches, all eyes will be on how GM’s entry shapes the future landscape of Formula 1.<h2>What FIA Has to Say</h2>Commenting on the update, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said, 'Over two years ago, the FIA approved the entry of an eleventh team into the FIA Formula One World Championship, guided by my vision to expand the grid and bring new talent and opportunity to our sport. Although the process was at times challenging, the progress we see today affirms the journey has been worthwhile.'Also Read:&nbsp;F1: <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-toto-wolff-calls-saudi-gp-mercedes-worst-performance-of-the-year-so-far-after-tyre-woes-120497/">Toto Wolff Calls Saudi GP Mercedes' Worst Performance of the Year So Far After Tyre Woes</a>'Welcoming GM Performance Power Units LLC. as an approved power unit supplier for the Championship starting in 2029 marks another step in the global expansion of Formula 1 and highlights the growing interest from world-class automotive manufacturers like General Motors. Their dedication to innovation, sustainability, and competition is fully aligned with the FIA’s vision for the future of our sport. It also strengthens our commitment to making motorsport more accessible and inclusive worldwide – welcoming new manufacturers, advancing technology, and connecting with a broader, more diverse fan base,'&nbsp;Sulayem added.<h2>General Motors and TWG Motorsports Partnership for the Development of Power Units</h2>
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 Russ O’Blenes, the head of GM Performance Power Units LLC, emphasised that the FIA’s approval marks a pivotal step in accelerating their goal of bringing a domestically engineered Formula 1 engine to the grid.The development of these power units is being spearheaded by a newly formed entity, created through a partnership between General Motors and TWG Motorsports – the parent organisation behind Andretti Global. As part of the program, a specialised engine development hub will be set up near GM’s Charlotte Technical Centre in North Carolina, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/motogp-aleix-espargaro-set-for-spanish-gp-wildcard-entry-with-honda-120494/">MotoGP: Aleix Espargaro Set for Spanish GP Wildcard Entry with Honda</a> With this milestone, GM enters the elite ranks of approved F1 power unit suppliers. Starting in 2029, it will challenge established giants like Ferrari, Mercedes, Audi, and Red Bull-Ford in the race for Formula 1 supremacy.

F1: General Motors Gets FIA Green Light to Join F1 as Engine Supplier from 2029

GM's Russ O’Blenes said the FIA’s decision accelerates the company’s vision of debuting a U.S.-engineered F1 power unit on the grid by 2029.


The FIA has made a significant change to its race direction team. Niels Wittich, who has held the role of Formula 1 Race Director since 2022, has stepped down with immediate effect. Rui Marques will take over as Race Director, beginning with the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix. This marks the fourth change in the position since the tragic passing of Charlie Whiting before the 2019 Australian Grand Prix. The decision to replace Wittich comes as the FIA seeks to address ongoing concerns regarding consistency and decision-making in race control.

FIA in a statement said: 'The FIA can confirm that Niels Wittich has stepped down from his position as F1 Race Director to pursue new opportunities.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-all-teams-set-to-unveil-2025-liveries-at-london-o2-event-on-february-18-118955/" rel="bookmark" title="F1: All Teams Set to Unveil 2025 Liveries at London O2 Event on February 18">F1: All Teams Set to Unveil 2025 Liveries at London O2 Event on February 18</a>

'Niels has fulfilled his numerous responsibilities as Race Director with professionalism and dedication. We thank him for his commitment and we wish him the best for the future.

'Rui brings a wealth of experience having previously served as track marshal, scrutineer, national and international steward, deputy race director and race director in various championships. Most recently, he held the position of Formula 2 and Formula 3 race director.'

<h2>F1: The Race Director</h2>

This mid-season change follows the departure of Niels Wittich. The FIA has not provided specific reasons for Wittich's exit, but it comes amid a period of significant turnover within the organisation. Speculation suggests potential internal tensions may be contributing to these departures.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-alpine-confirms-switch-to-mercedes-power-units-for-2026-season-118952/" rel="bookmark" title="F1: Alpine Confirms Switch to Mercedes Power Units for 2026 Season">F1: Alpine Confirms Switch to Mercedes Power Units for 2026 Season</a>

Wittich's exit follows a pattern set by Michael Masi, who was removed after the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Max Verstappen claimed the title over Lewis Hamilton. It remains unclear whether Wittich’s departure is linked to any disagreements with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Several senior FIA staff members have resigned this year, fueling speculation.

With extensive experience as a track marshal, scrutineer, and steward in various championships, including recent roles in Formula 2 and Formula 3, Marques brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the prestigious position.

F1: FIA Announce Rui Marques as New Formula 1 Race Director After Wittich Steps Down

Wittich assumed the role of Formula 1 Race Director in 2022, initially sharing the position with Eduardo Freitas as replacement for Michael Masi. He took on the role full-time in 2023.

The 2025 Formula One season schedule has been released, promising a dynamic global mix of races. In March, Australia takes the opening slot, replacing Saudi Arabia. Notably, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia's Grands Prix move to April to accommodate Ramadan. The cherished August summer break spans three weekends, between Hungary and Zandvoort. Building upon the geographical balance introduced in 2024, the 2025 calendar aims to provide a diverse and equitable distribution of races. Japan kicks off the action in April, followed by iconic stops in Australia and China. The summer months will predominantly feature races in Europe, while the autumn months will see the focus shift to the Americas. Rounding off the season with a flourish, back-to-back races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi promise an exhilarating conclusion to what is sure to be a thrilling year of Formula One action.

<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fia-clears-ben-sulayem-of-wrongdoing-after-investigation-116570/">Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA</a>, said: "The 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship calendar, approved by the World Motor Sport Council, is a further illustration of our collective mission of meeting sustainability objectives through the regionalisation of events. While our focus is on the overall stability of Formula 1, we also have a shared duty to the environment and to the health and well-being of travelling staff. “

<a href="https://www.autox.com/opinion/joe-saward/stefano-domenicali-to-be-the-new-formula-one-ceo-108478/">Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1</a>, said: ”2025 will be a special year as we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the FIA Formula One World Championship, and it’s that legacy and experience that allows us to deliver such a strong calendar. Once again, we’ll visit 24 incredible venues around the world, delivering top-class racing, hospitality, and entertainment, which will be enjoyed by millions of fans worldwide.”

<h2>F1 2025 Calender</h2>

<img alt=" F1 Cars on Race Track" src="/uploads/2024/02/MotoGP-Sport-F1-cars-2.jpg" style="width: 1280px; height: 720px;" />

The 2025 Formula One season kicks off on March 16 at Melbourne's Albert Park circuit, followed by a back-to-back race in China on March 23. After a two-week break, the action resumes at <a href="http://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-japanese-grand-prix-verstappen-beats-perez-at-suzuka-red-bull-extends-lead-in-constructors-fight-116719/">Suzuka for the Japanese GP</a> on April 6, maintaining its spring schedule from the previous year. Ahead of the brief hiatus leading up to the Miami Grand Prix on May 4, Bahrain (April 13) and Saudi Arabia (April 20) are scheduled as consecutive races.

In Europe, Formula One embarks on a triple header starting on May 18 in Monaco and continuing through June 1 in Spain. Before the summer break, a back-to-back in Austria (June 29) and Britain (July 6) follows the Canadian Grand Prix on June 15. The last races before the break are a doubleheader in Belgium (July 27) and Hungary (August 3).

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="388">
	<tbody>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" width="40">Sr No</td>
			<td width="125">Date</td>
			<td width="122">Country</td>
			<td width="101">City</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">1</td>
			<td>March 14-16</td>
			<td>Australia</td>
			<td>Melbourne</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">2</td>
			<td>March 21-23</td>
			<td>China</td>
			<td>Shanghai</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">3</td>
			<td>April 4-6</td>
			<td>Japan</td>
			<td>Suzuka</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">4</td>
			<td>April 11-13</td>
			<td>Bahrain</td>
			<td>Sakhir</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">5</td>
			<td>April 18-20</td>
			<td>Saudi Arabia</td>
			<td>Jeddah</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">6</td>
			<td>May 2-4</td>
			<td>USA</td>
			<td>Miami</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">7</td>
			<td>May 16-18</td>
			<td>Italy</td>
			<td>Imola</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">8</td>
			<td>May 23-25</td>
			<td>Monaco</td>
			<td>Monaco</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">9</td>
			<td>May 30 – June 1</td>
			<td>Spain</td>
			<td>Barcelona</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">10</td>
			<td>June 13-15</td>
			<td>Canada</td>
			<td>Montreal</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">11</td>
			<td>June 27-29</td>
			<td>Austria</td>
			<td>Spielberg</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">12</td>
			<td>July 4-6</td>
			<td>United Kingdom</td>
			<td>Silverstone</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">13</td>
			<td>July 25-27</td>
			<td>Belgium</td>
			<td>Spa</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">14</td>
			<td>August 1-3</td>
			<td>Hungary</td>
			<td>Budapest</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">15</td>
			<td>August 29-31</td>
			<td>Netherlands</td>
			<td>Zandvoort</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">16</td>
			<td>September 5-7</td>
			<td>Italy</td>
			<td>Monza</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">17</td>
			<td>September 19-21</td>
			<td>Azerbaijan</td>
			<td>Baku</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">18</td>
			<td>October 3-5</td>
			<td>Singapore</td>
			<td>Singapore</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">19</td>
			<td>October 17-19</td>
			<td>USA</td>
			<td>Austin</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">20</td>
			<td>October 24-26</td>
			<td>Mexico</td>
			<td>Mexico City</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">21</td>
			<td>November 7-9</td>
			<td>Brazil</td>
			<td>Sao Paulo</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">22</td>
			<td>November 20-22</td>
			<td>USA</td>
			<td>Las Vegas</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">23</td>
			<td>November 28-30</td>
			<td>Qatar</td>
			<td>Lusail</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20">24</td>
			<td>December 5-7</td>
			<td>Abu Dhabi</td>
			<td>Yas Marina</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

The regular season resumes on August 31 with the Dutch Grand Prix and concludes with a schedule identical to that of the previous year. Two tripleheaders are set in the United States, Mexico, and Brazil during the final round of races in 2025, before the season finale on December 7 with races in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. F1 fans eagerly anticipate the 2025 season, poised to witness <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-lewis-hamilton-to-join-ferrari-in-2025-to-replace-carlos-sainz-116020/">Lewis Hamilton donning Ferrari Red alongside Charles Leclerc</a>, replacing Carlos Sainz.

F1: Australian Grand Prix to Kick Off 2025 Season as Formula One Unveils 24-Race Calendar

In 2025, the FIA Formula One World Championship will mark its 75th anniversary, and the organizers have unveiled the schedule for the event, ensuring another thrilling 24-round season.

Following comments made against her by Formula 1's governing body, Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff's wife Susie Wolff took legal action on Wednesday by submitting a criminal complaint in the French courts. Wolff is a member of F1's executive team and the show's director for the female-centric F1 Academy. The FIA launched its investigation on&nbsp;the Wolffs in early December in response to suspicions of potentially private information exchange and a possible conflict of interest.&nbsp;Media reports about the possible disclosure of sensitive information prompted the FIA to clarify that its compliance division was looking into the claims. A story in the BusinessF1 magazine said that executives from competing teams had expressed worries about the suspected leak of information from private meetings between Toto and Susie Wolff, which led to the probe. The fact that Susie Wolff reports directly to Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula One, is noteworthy.&nbsp;

The other nine Formula One teams quickly followed suit, denying any wrongdoing and issuing virtually similar statements in response to the FIA's announcement that it would open an inquiry. Reiterating its previous position, the FIA said that complaints must be sent to its ethics or compliance committees for investigations to be launched. <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fia-drops-investigation-on-mercedes-chief-toto-and-wife-susie-wolff-115483/">Within two days, the FIA had finished looking in</a><a href="http://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fia-drops-investigation-on-mercedes-chief-toto-and-wife-susie-wolff-115483/">to the matter.</a> Wolffs&nbsp;have dropped hints that they may take legal action against the Paris-based group. On Wednesday, Susie&nbsp;posted on social media to clarify that she had filed an official complaint on March 4th.

<h2>Hamilton Praises Susie Wolff</h2>

Lewis Hamilton has praised Susie Wolff for standing up to the FIA with a criminal charge, highlighting the critical need for openness and responsibility in Formula 1 and racing. The British racer&nbsp;has spoken out in favour of Wolff, praising her for calling attention to the lack of transparency&nbsp;and accountability inside the organisation&nbsp;and the sport itself.&nbsp;

These comments come after news broke that a female Red Bull employee—now suspended—had complained to the FIA about Christian Horner's behaviour as team principal. On top of that, the governing body also investigated claims that its president, <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fia-clears-ben-sulayem-of-wrongdoing-after-investigation-116570/">Mohammed Ben Sulayem</a>, tried to influence the officials at the 2023 Saudi Arabian and Las Vegas Grand Prix. Sulayem has since been cleared of any wrongdoing.

Susie Wolff Lodges Criminal Complaint Against FIA Amid Conflict of Interest Probe

The managing director of the F1 Academy, Susie Wolff, filed a criminal case against the FIA because of false claims made against her and her husband, Toto Wolff, who is the head of the Mercedes team.

The president of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has been cleared of any wrongdoing after last year's accusations about his participation in Formula 1 races surfaced. A whistleblower's allegations about two events that happened in 2023 prompted the FIA's Compliance Department to launch an inquiry. The initial charge was that Ben Sulayem had a hand in the stewards' decision to reverse Fernando Alonso's punishment during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. During the second incident, which took place during the Grand Prix in Las Vegas, allegations surfaced that he&nbsp;had pushed for the FIA to reject the track certification for Formula 1's newest event venue.

The FIA Compliance Officer and its six-member Ethics Committee carried out a thorough investigation, but on Wednesday it ruled that there was not enough evidence to prove that Sulayem was&nbsp;involved. Eleven people were interviewed as part of the thirty-day inquiry by the FIA.

According to a press release from the FIA, the Committee unanimously decided that the accusations of influence against&nbsp;Mohammed Ben Sulayem did not have any merit after reviewing the investigation's results in detail.

<h2>What was the&nbsp;Allegation?</h2>

In the race, Fernando Alonso was penalised ten seconds, dropping him from third to fourth place, after finishing in third place in the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The stewards handed down the penalty because they saw the rear&nbsp;jack touch the vehicle before the five-second rule had expired during the pitspot. Aston Martin, Alonso's team, successfully challenged the verdict by submitting new evidence more than 30 laps after the penalty was imposed.

<img alt="F1 Aston Martin AMR 23" height="720" src="/uploads/2023/05/F1-Aston-Martin-AMR-23.jpg" width="1280" />

Despite much discussion, the Sporting Advisory Committee (SAC) was unable to settle on a clear policy against jacks touching cars, according to Aston Martin of Silverstone. Mercedes, Alpine, Haas, and McLaren were among the teams included in the team's extensive video library of penalised pitstops including jacks touching with cars. The stewards reevaluated Alonso's 10-second penalty and put him back in third position after looking at this information. The FIA came under fire for creating needless uncertainty among teams and spectators by not providing clear rules and interpretation instructions.

<h2>Ben Sulayem and Formula 1</h2>

Since becoming president at the tail end of 2021, Ben Sulayem has been in the middle of a slew of controversies. Under his presidency, the FIA has been criticised for its ineffectiveness in governing Formula 1. Many well-known people have left the governing&nbsp;body&nbsp;in the last few months.

Furthermore, when Sulayem made certain social media comments on the monetary worth of the championship, Formula One Management—the marketing arm of Formula One—expressed their displeasure with him. <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fom-rejects-andrettis-entry-plans-to-reconsider-in-2028-with-gms-engine-116003/">Despite Andretti getting approval from the FIA</a>, their F1 aspirations were dashed by the commercial rights holder, who rejected their application on business grounds.

Under the leadership of Ben Sulayem,<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fia-drops-investigation-on-mercedes-chief-toto-and-wife-susie-wolff-115483/"> the FIA began an inquiry into Toto Wolff, head of the Mercedes team, and Susie Wolff,</a> managing director of the F1 Academy, regarding possible conflicts of interest as the previous season came to an end. It didn't take long for the investigation to be dropped after all 10 Formula One teams denied the allegations.

F1: FIA Clears Ben Sulayem of Wrongdoing After Investigation

Two distinct incidents that happened during the 2023 Formula One season prompted the FIA's Compliance Department to investigate allegations made against Ben Sulayem.

Christian Horner, the boss of Red Bull's Formula 1 team, is the focus of an official complaint that the FIA is now looking into. An appeal is still on, even though the firm rejected the accusations against him. The matter is still unsolved, even though a thorough examination of Horner's contacts with a female colleague revealed no grounds for punishment. Rumour has it that the suspended female employee intends to contest the results of the inquiry that the Austrian energy drink manufacturer Red Bull conducted. Also, she has alerted the FIA to what might be a breach of the code of conduct for motor racing, which could lead to a more serious investigation.

Because the FIA saw it as an internal matter pertaining to employment, they were hesitant to step in before. The regulatory authority may, however, be forced to step in if signs of violations of regulations are detected. To guarantee fair treatment of all persons involved with the organisation, including workers, the FIA maintains an Anti-Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy. Harassment includes any inappropriate behaviour that another person may fairly regard as offensive or humiliating, and a specific hotline has been set up for reporting abuse.

In a statement, the FIa reads: "At the FIA, enquiries and complaints are received and managed by the Compliance Officer, and the Ethics Committee where appropriate. Both the bodies operate autonomously, guaranteeing strict confidentiality throughout the process."

"As a consequence, and in general, we are unable to confirm the receipt of any specific complaint and it is unlikely that we will be able to provide further comment on the complaints that we may receive from the parties," the statement added.

<h2>F1: About the Controversy</h2>

<img alt="F1 Red Bull Christian Horner" height="720" src="/uploads/2024/03/F1-Red-bull-Christian-Horner.png" width="1280" />

In the midst of an inquiry-driven by unsubstantiated claims made by a female employee, <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-christian-horner-controversy-timeline-listed-inside-the-red-bull-drama-116425/">Christian Horner was caught in the middle of a media frenzy</a> as he fought for his job and reputation in the Grand Prix racing world. In spite of all the negative press, Horner continued to play an active role in RB20's reveal and preseason testing.

Red Bull GmbH, the parent company of Red Bull Racing, formally announced the investigation against Horner on February 5. Horner is functioning as both the team's principal and CEO. A female coworker had lodged claims of "inappropriate behaviour," which led to the launch of the inquiry. In response to the allegations, Red Bull GmbH committed to investigating them quickly, reiterating its firm resolve to treat such concerns seriously. In spite of the claims, Horner persisted in carrying out his responsibilities as the Milton Keynes-based team's principal and chief executive officer. Importantly, the complainant persisted with her professional duties all the while the inquiry was underway.

Even though an eight-week inquiry into Horner's attitude towards a female colleague came to <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-red-bulls-christian-horner-cleared-in-probe-on-inappropriate-behavior-116324/">the conclusion that no punishment was needed</a>, the situation seems far from resolved.

F1: FIA Issues Statement Following Complaint Against Christian Horner and Red Bull Investigation

The unnamed woman was suspended last week following an investigation by a senior independent attorney, whose identity isn't revealed, which cleared Horner.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the Formula One regulatory organisation, is allegedly the subject of an investigation into allegations of meddling with the race's outcome. According to the source, the 2023 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is at the centre of the inquiry since a whistleblower claimed that Ben Sulayem attempted to have Alonso's 10-second penalty overturned. Some claim that Ben Sulayem spoke with a close associate during the event, Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamas bin Isa Al Khalifa, who is the FIA vice-president for sports in the Middle East and North Africa. The FIA's ethics committee is now reviewing the case, and Paolo Basarri, a member of the committee since 2017, has submitted a report on the topic.

<h2>F1: What is the Accusation?</h2>

After starting in third place, the 41-year-old Spaniard was penalised 10 seconds after the race and dropped to fourth. Because the stewards saw that the rear jack touched the car before the allotted five seconds had passed, the driver was penalised. This occurred because of an error in grid placement. More than 30 laps following the penalty's imposition, Alonso's team, Aston Martin, successfully appealed the judgement by submitting fresh evidence.

<img alt="F1 Aston Martin jpg" height="720" src="/uploads/2023/05/F1-Aston-Martin.jpg" width="1280" />

The Silverstone-based squad brought attention to the fact that the Sporting Advisory Committee (SAC) debates did not reach a final decision on whether or not jacks contacting vehicles were considered prohibited. Aston Martin showed several videos depicting penalty pitstops involving different teams, including Mercedes, Alpine, Haas, and McLaren, in which jacks came into touch with the vehicles. Alonso was reinstated to third position after the stewards considered this new evidence and reversed their ruling on his 10-second penalty. Some felt that the FIA was causing unnecessary confusion by not clearly stating how rules should be interpreted.

<h2>F1: Ben Sulayem and Formula 1</h2>

During his time as president, which began at the end of 2021, Ben Sulayem has been the centre of controversy. Critics have questioned the FIA's ability to effectively regulate Formula 1 during his tenure. In recent months, the FIA has lost a number of notable individuals.

Plus, Formula One Management—the business arm of Formula One—has reacted negatively to Ben Sulayem after he made comments about the championship's financial worth on social media. Andretti was able to successfully navigate the procedure he unilaterally launched to admit an eleventh team onto the grid at the same time. The commercial rights holder put a stop to <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fom-rejects-andrettis-entry-plans-to-reconsider-in-2028-with-gms-engine-116003/">Andretti's F1 dreams by rejecting their application </a>on business grounds.

As the previous season came to a close, the FIA under Ben Sulayem raised possible legal eyebrows by <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fia-drops-investigation-on-mercedes-chief-toto-and-wife-susie-wolff-115483/">investigating Mercedes team head Toto Wolff</a> and F1 Academy managing director Susie Wolff on suspicion of a conflict of interest. After all ten Formula One teams denied making any complaints, the probe was quickly dropped.

<a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/68465516">Source</a>

F1: FIA President Ben Sulayem Under Investigation for Alleged Race Interference Attempt

FIA's President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is facing allegations that he interfered with a steward's decision at the 2023 F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

In line with the Formula 1 organisation, the FIA has now openly acknowledged the ongoing investigation into claims of inappropriate behaviour by Christian Horner, the principal of the Red Bull team. This statement comes two weeks after the first news stories about an internal review came out. Initial reports said that Horner was being investigated by Red Bull GMbH, the Austrian parent company, because of vague claims of misbehaviour from a female employee. Horner has strongly denied doing anything wrong.

The review was mostly about a recent interview on February 9 by a separate lawyer working for Red Bull. Horner went public at the launch of the new RB20 in Milton Keynes on February 15, even though the investigation is still going on. The day after the launch, there was more talk in the media about what the accusations were, which brought the case back to people's attention and led the two main groups involved in the sport to respond.

<h2>What did FIA say?</h2>

The FIA statement read: "In relation to the independent investigation currently being undertaken by Red Bull GMbH, the FIA reiterates that until such time as the investigation has concluded and the outcome is known, we will not be commenting further. The FIA remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness and inclusivity within the sport."

<h2>F1: Christian Horner to Leave Red Bull?</h2>

<img alt="F1 Red Bull Max Verstappen Christian Horner" height="720" src="/uploads/2023/09/F1-Red-Bull-Max-Verstappen-Christian-Horner.jpg" width="1280" />

Christian Horner has more experience than anyone else managing Formula One teams. After Red Bull Racing bought the Jaguar squad in 2005, the British man took charge. Under his direction, Red Bull Racing achieved an unprecedented level of success in 2023. For the third year running, Max Verstappen has won the championship, and his team has won 21 of 22 races. As we approach the 2024 season, testing is about to start in Bahrain later this month, and the anticipation is palpable.

Neither the energy drink manufacturer nor the British squad have gone into depth about the claims. Nonetheless, there have been hints in the media about claims of domineering and inappropriate behaviour towards a female coworker.

Horner reaffirmed his collaboration and voiced trust in the ongoing process at last Friday's <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-red-bull-reveals-rb20-for-2024-season-with-design-that-mimics-mercedess-w14-116194/">presentation of his team's RB20 car in Milton Keynes</a>. "I deny absolutely any allegation that's been made against me," he stated, firmly rejecting all claims levelled against him.

Horner is still in charge of the Formula One team, but he may step down if the claims turn out to be true and things escalate further. Horner has guided Red Bull to seven driver's crowns and six constructors' championships, making them firm favourites to maintain their supremacy this season. <a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-adrian-newey-hints-at-retirement-after-max-verstappen-wins-100th-race-for-red-bull-113618/">Chief Technical Officer Adrian Newey</a> is a legendary figure in Formula One engineering, and if he were to theoretically depart the business with Horner, Red Bull's dominance may cease, sending shockwaves across the sport. The team's dynamic would be completely changed by this.

Speculation around potential successors has begun. Allegedly, Dr. Helmut Marko, head of Motorsport, is not interested in accepting the role at Milton Keynes. Team manager Jonathan Wheatley has the option to step in and lead the squad during this time. Although the 56-year-old Britishman started his Formula One career in the 1990s as a mechanic for Benetton, he became the team manager at Red Bull Racing in 2006 after joining the team.&nbsp;

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F1: FIA Releases Statement Regarding Investigation into Red Bull Team's Horner

The FIA has refrained from commenting on the internal investigation into alleged "inappropriate conduct" by Red Bull Formula 1 boss Christian Horner towards a female team member.

F1 &nbsp;teams use the Right of Review procedure to contest decisions, and the FIA recently made significant changes to it. The time window will be shortened, and a cost will be implemented as a result of this proposal. The new deadline for teams to request a Right of Review is 96 hours from the end of the competition, down from the previous 14 days. If approved by FIA stewards, an extra day can be added to this deadline.

Several teams in the 2023 season used the Right of Review, including Aston Martin for the Saudi Arabia race, Ferrari for the Australian race, McLaren for the Austrian race, and Haas for the Cota Race (USA). The other three cases were quickly rejected, but Aston Martin's case was the only one that succeeded.&nbsp;

Section of the International Sporting Code that has been amended to include these changes now states: “The period during which a petition for review may be brought expires after 96 hours from the end of the competition concerned, except in circumstances where the stewards consider that compliance with the 96-hour deadline would be impossible, in which case the stewards may extend this deadline by no more than 24 hours.”&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-fia-proposes-for-surprise-formula-1-factory-inspections-with-zero-notice-115613/">F1: FIA Proposes for Surprise Formula 1 Factory Inspections with Zero Notice</a>

Regardless of the outcome of the appeal, teams now have to pay €6,000 in advance.

The International Sporting Code (ISC) recently updated its guidelines, which state that a request, “must be accompanied by a deposit amount of which will be annually set by the parent ASN of the international series; or by the FIA for its championships, cups, trophies, challenges or series.

“In addition, the deposit must be specified in the sporting regulations or supplementary regulations of the competition. This deposit may only be returned if the right of review is upheld unless fairness requires otherwise.”

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These revised rules apply to all FIA-sanctioned racing series; yet, Formula 1 instances have invariably garnered the most media attention and publicity.

F1: FIA Introduces Significant Update to Right to Review Process

The FIA updated its International Sporting Code to include changes to the Right of Review procedure, giving Formula 1 teams a way to contest judgements.

A new tactic—surprise inspections of Formula 1 teams' facilities—is a step towards stricter regulation from the FIA. The rising complexity of Formula One laws has driven this proactive approach, which is a big change in how the sport's governing body makes sure everyone plays by the rules. Formula 1 regulations are complex and have limited teams' operational flexibility, which has an impact on testing and resource utilisation, two essential areas. Maintaining honesty and fair play in the sport requires absolute adherence to these rules.

There are certain limitations to the FIA's traditional practice of giving teams advance notice before inspecting their factories; one such drawback being the difficulty in detecting teams that are trying to break the regulations. The head of single-seater affairs at the FIA, Nikolas Tombazis, has proposed a system of more random inspections to remedy this.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-ferrari-unveils-official-launch-date-for-their-2024-formula-1-challenger-115602/" rel="bookmark" title="F1: Ferrari Unveils Official Launch Date for their 2024 Formula 1 Challenger">F1: Ferrari Unveils Official Launch Date for their 2024 Formula 1 Challenger</a>

This proposed process calls for FIA inspectors to get in touch with a group, get admitted quickly, and then be led to designated places like the wind tunnel. Current wait times at factory gates are 10 to 15 minutes. FIA aim to decrease them to a minimum.

The FIA has recently made an effort to increase the number of inspectors it employs to help with factory inspections. This could lead to inspections happening as often as once every two weeks. The Formula 1 ecosystem is going to be more open and compliant thanks to this proactive strategy.

<h2>F1: FIA-Wolffs Controversy is Embarrassing for Formula 1, says Vasseur</h2>

<img alt="F1 Ferrari Frederic Vasseur" height="720" src="/uploads/2023/12/F1-Ferrari-Frederic-Vasseur.jpg" width="1280" />

"Embarrassing" is the word used by Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur to describe the current FIA probe into F1 power couple Susie and Toto Wolff, according to Motorsports.

Toto Wolff of Mercedes and his wife Susie, who is the head of the F1 Academy, were named in an F1 magazine as the subjects of an investigation into possible conflicts of interest by the FIA in December.

In reaction to the FIA's announcement, the Wolffs issued a strong denial. The FIA concluded the inquiry and declared the claims without merit within 48 hours.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/motorsport-news/f1-hamilton-confident-about-mercedes-performance-in-2024-115584/" rel="bookmark" title="F1: Hamilton Confident about Mercedes' Performance in 2024">F1: Hamilton Confident about Mercedes' Performance in 2024</a>

One bright spot, as pointed out by Vasseur, was that all ten teams came together on one subject, which is unusual. Amid the chaotic event, an uncommon agreement among F1 teams stood out.

<a href="https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/fia-seeks-zero-notice-f1-factory-inspections/10558041/">Source</a>

F1: FIA Proposes for Surprise Formula 1 Factory Inspections with Zero Notice

To guarantee that Formula 1 teams are following the regulations, the FIA has stated its intention to transition to a "zero notice" approach for factory inspections.

Fia