In recent years, the fines imposed by the FIA on Formula 1 drivers have been at the centre of controversy in the paddock, and one of the most recurrent points of criticism is the lack of transparency regarding where all that money goes. What some consider disproportionate penalties have led pilots to demand greater clarity regarding where these fines are spent and how the funds raised are used.
In particular, driver George Russell, who is also a Director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), has been one of the strongest voices calling for answers on this issue. He has repeatedly pointed out that the financial penalties imposed do not always seem to have a logical or proportional justification, leading to frustration among drivers. One of the most talked about examples was a $50,000 fine for simply walking on the track during a session. Russell and the rest of the drivers question whether these penalties actually serve the sport or are simply another way to raise money.
Where does the money from fines in F1 go?
To this day, it is not entirely clear how the money raised through fines is used in Formula 1. Although some assume the funds are intended to improve safety or finance certain administrative aspects of the sport, drivers and teams have never received a clear or detailed response from the FIA.
George Russell has been one of the first to publicly ask the FIA to explain with transparency the destination of these resources. In his view, if the money was being used to improve the sport, for example to pay better stewards or improve refereeing, the drivers would be more likely to accept the financial penalties imposed. But as long as the lack of clarity persists, tensions between drivers and the governing body continue to rise.
The demand for improved refereeing in Formula 1
The issue of fines has also brought to light another problem in Formula 1: the quality of refereeing. According to Russell, fans are not only going to see the best drivers and teams racing, but they should also be able to see the best race stewards. He has called for the FIA to be on a par with the elite of drivers, engineers and designers that make up the sport.
Throughout the 2024 season, inconsistent decisions by stewards have sparked controversy, especially at crucial moments that have defined races and, in some cases, the championship. This, according to many drivers, is something that needs to be corrected as soon as possible.
In this regard, there is growing concern that decisions affecting both race outcomes and financial penalties are not always based on consistent criteria. Sometimes penalties can be imposed for seemingly trivial reasons, as was the case with Lando Norris being fined for using inappropriate language. Without a clear explanation and consistent logic behind the decisions, drivers feel that these punishments are pointless and create an environment of uncertainty within the sport.
Drivers' requests to the FIA
Formula One drivers, led by figures such as Russell, are not only questioning where the money from fines goes but are also calling for it to be used constructively for the benefit of the sport. The Drivers' Association has suggested that these resources could be used to fund more efficient and professional oversight, something they see as essential to maintaining the integrity of F1.
Transparency in these aspects is crucial to maintaining confidence in the FIA. and, most importantly, to ensure that the sport remains fair and consistent with the high standards expected of a competition at this level.
Until these points are clarified, the relationship between the drivers and the FIA will remain tense. It is no longer just about fines or refereeing decisions, but about the credibility of the regulatory body in the eyes of those who, week after week, risk their lives on the circuit. It is essential that fines are not perceived simply as a collection mechanism, but as another tool to improve the safety and quality of sport.