FIA president denies rumours of friction with FOM: 'I can't complain'

Mohammed Ben Sulayem denies rumours that the relationship between the FIA and Formula One Management has deteriorated. In fact, according to the FIA president, the relationship between the organisations has never been as good as it is now.

Ben Sulayem said this in a reaction to rumours of tensions between the two sides in recent months. These included widespread criticism of the FIA's handling of the investigation into Red Bull Racing's budget cap. Also, not all teams agreed with the decision to double the number of sprint races from three to six.

FIA denies rumours of friction with FOM

Moreover, from the Red Bull camp, among others, there was repeated criticism of the position of Shaila-Ann Rao, who joined the FIA after working at Mercedes as a personal adviser to Toto Wolff. It was recently announced that she is stepping down after six months at the governing body.

Ben Sulayem denies rumours of a rift between himself and Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali, stressing that the two were in constant contact throughout the season. He therefore finds it somewhat difficult to understand where the rumours are coming from, the FIA president told Autosport.com.

He himself thinks that the decision on the number of sprint races was cause for speculation. According to Ben Sulayem, it was 'suddenly' decided to organise three additional sprints, but the FIA delayed the decision. Following this, rumours of friction between the FIA and FOM arose, but Ben Sulayem stressed that the relationship between them is excellent.

"I am in a very good relationship, in a professional and personal relationship. It can't be better. Okay if we improve it, it will be. But I can't complain now," the FIA president said.