In a recent statement, it was announced that President Ben Sulayem has fully cooperated, been transparent, and complied with the investigation. The investigation, which lasted for a month, found no evidence to support the allegations against the FIA President. The FIA Ethics Committee has determined that the claims against President Ben Sulayem were baseless and supported by strong evidence. The FIA, in a press release, revealed that an independent body has confirmed the unsubstantiated nature of the allegations against the FIA President. The investigation, which included interviews with 11 witnesses, spanned over a period of 30 days.
The FIA Compliance Department, with the assistance of external advisors, conducted thorough inquiries into allegations of potential interference in sporting decisions during Formula 1 events in 2023. Upon reviewing the results of the inquiries, the Ethics Committee unanimously concluded that there was no evidence to support the allegations of interference involving President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Concerns regarding potential interference were reported to the FIA Compliance Officer and subsequently referred to the FIA Ethics Committee in accordance with Article 32.2.5 of the FIA Statutes. A comprehensive and independent review, lasting for 30 days and including interviews with 11 witnesses, was conducted. The allegations against the FIA President were found to be without merit, and the FIA Ethics Committee had ample evidence to support their determination.
President Ben Sulayem has been cleared of any wrongdoing in relation to allegations of interfering with the Stewards’ decision to reverse a penalty on Car 14 during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023, following a challenge from the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 Team. Additionally, there were accusations of attempted interference with the track certification process for the Las Vegas Grand Prix 2023. However, the certification process was completed and approved on time, and President Ben Sulayem’s full cooperation, transparency, and compliance throughout the investigation were highly valued.