F1 News: Sky Sports Claims FIA President Needs To Avoid "Public Confrontation" With Lewis Hamilton
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has found himself wrapped up in more controversy with the recent back and forth between the FIA and F1 as well as previous sexist comments being revealed. With this in mind, Sky Sports have reported that "the last thing" Sulayem needs right now is "a public confrontation" with Lewis Hamilton.
This comes after the latest FIA ruling which prohibits drivers from making any personal, religious, or political statements without prior approval. The seven-time champion is passionate about using his platform to fight against racism and social issues as well as pushing for more diversity and inclusivity in the sport.
The Mercedes driver has already had some public friction with the FIA after the governing body decided to ban drivers from wearing jewellery whilst racing.
In a recent report from Sky Sports, they explained that as Liberty Media are calling for Mohammed Ben Sulayem to be replaced as FIA president, "a public conflict with one of the world's most popular athletes" is the last thing he needs at the moment. The report states:
“Considering Sky Sports News’ Craig Slater has reported this week that several senior figures within F1 have said there is active discussion among team bosses over whether Ben Sulayem’s tenure is an increasing problem, a public conflict with one of the world’s most popular athletes is perhaps the last thing the embattled FIA president needs at the moment."
Hamilton has touched on subject surrounding the latest ruling but has not officially commented on it directly. He explained during an interview with The New York Times that he would rather not race than not use his platform to have these difficult conversations.
The 2023 F1 season will be starting with the Bahrain Grand Prix on 3rd -5th March with pre-season testing the week before.