Susie Wolff ‘deeply insulted’ by conflict-of-interest allegations

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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.

Read also: F1 and Mercedes deny conflict of interest accusations against Wolff

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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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.