Brown calls for ‘more unified’ relationship between F1 and FIA

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McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has expressed his desire for a “more unified” relationship between the FIA and Formula 1 following a series of recent conflicts that have strained their collaboration.

In recent months, the FIA, led by President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has faced criticism from the incumbent Formula 1 teams, particularly regarding the controversial proposed entry into the sport of Andretti Cadillac.

But tensions escalated last month when the FIA – at the behest of its president – initiated an investigation into a potential conflict of interest involving Toto Wolff, Mercedes' Team Principal, and his wife Susie, who serves as Managing Director of the F1 Academy.

However, the investigation was abruptly dropped within 48 hours, prompting a collective statement from Mercedes' rival teams denying any involvement in prompting the FIA's actions.

This episode, and others, have fueled tensions between the teams and the governing body, with Wolff recently stating that the FIA's conduct had "caused great damage."

Read also: Wolff still seeking FIA accountability over ‘damaging’ investigation

Amidst these developments, Brown has joined choruses calling for a more harmonious relationship between the FIA and Formula 1 management.

Speaking at McLaren's 2024 livery launch, Brown emphasized the need for a collaborative spirit to ensure the sport's continued success.

“As far as the FIA and Formula 1, we just would like to see that relationship progress in a more unified way," commented the American. "We think they both want to do what's best for the sport, which is a great place to be centred."

Brown also clarified that McLaren had no part in initiating the Wolff investigation, reaffirming the team's support for the F1 Academy and Susie Wolff's integrity.

"We’re not a part of that at all," Brown clarified. "We’re a big supporter of the F1 Academy and we’re excited to be part of it. I’ve known Susie a long time, she’s very high integrity. So, we have no concerns."

Brown's call for unity reflects the growing consensus among stakeholders that the FIA and Formula 1 need to work together more effectively to address challenges and maintain the sport's competitiveness and appeal.

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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.