F1 Academy managing director Susie Wolff has hit back at allegations of a potential conflict of interest made against her, saying the accusations are rooted in “intimidatory and misogynistic” behaviour.
The racing executive and her husband Toto Wolff are under scrutiny following an announcement by the FIA on Tuesday evening that its compliance department has launched an investigation into a potential conflict of interest involving “a Formula 1 team principal and a member of FOM personnel”.
The investigation stems from an allegation that confidential information may have been shared by the couple.
Formula 1 and Mercedes both responded to the FIA’s initiative with strongly worded statements denying any wrongdoing.
Late on Tuesday evening, Susie Wolff released her own public rebuke on the matter.
“I am deeply insulted but sadly unsurprised by the public allegations that have been made this evening,” she wrote.
“It is disheartening that my integrity is being called into question in such a manner, especially when it seems to be rooted in intimidatory and misogynistic behaviour, and focused on my marital status rather than my abilities.
“Throughout my career in motorsport, I have encountered and overcome numerous obstacles and I refuse to let these baseless allegations overshadow my dedication and passion for F1 Academy.
“As a woman in this sport, I have faced my fair share of challenges but my commitment to breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations to succeed remains unwavering.
“In the strongest possible terms, I reject these allegations.”
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