Kuala Lampur:The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is steadfast in its commitment to fairness in Formula One, despite recent complaints from drivers regarding stewarding, as stated by its president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ben Sulayem responded to concerns about inconsistency in stewarding and race control by acknowledging the drivers' perspectives but emphasized the FIA's obligation to uphold fairness. He remarked on the challenge of steward selection, noting, "Stewards don't grow on trees."

Ben Sulayem made these comments during a media roundtable with selected Malaysian media while in Malaysia for the Bahrain Grand Prix, which took place at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4. The event was rescheduled from April 10-12 due to disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict.

Drivers have raised issues over the consistency of stewarding in recent seasons, particularly regarding the varying stewarding panels and interpretations of driving standards and penalties. In response, the FIA introduced the Formula One Driving Standards Guidelines in 2022, aimed at providing clarity on the judgment of racing incidents. These guidelines have been revised in consultation with drivers and teams, accompanied by the publication of penalty guidelines to enhance transparency and consistency.

Ben Sulayem acknowledged the drivers' concerns but questioned the persistence of such complaints when drivers are successful. He expressed affection for the drivers but posed, "The people who complain, when they are winning, do they complain?"

While recognizing that not all decisions will be popular, Ben Sulayem assured that fairness remains a priority for the FIA, even if it occasionally leads to disagreement among fans.