Faced with tensions around team multi-ownerships, the FIA confirms it is examining a sensitive file that deeply divides the paddock.
The issue of multiple team ownerships in Formula 1 is once again at the center of discussions. A sensitive topic, regularly criticized for its potential impact on sporting fairness, and which could now be the subject of an official position from the FIA.
The debate is not new, but it is gaining new momentum with recent investor movements and rumors of buyouts or share acquisitions in several teams on the grid.
FIA confirms ongoing analysis
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA president, has confirmed that the governing body of motorsport is closely interested in the issue. The goal is to assess whether this type of ownership model is compatible with the sporting integrity principles of Formula 1.
The subject is particularly delicate in a context where some teams are linked to groups owning multiple structures in the paddock, raising questions about the real independence of sporting and technical decisions.
This issue is regularly denounced by some F1 figures, starting with Zak Brown. The McLaren CEO has often spoken out against this model, believing it could harm transparency and competition.
He notably recalled that in other major global sports disciplines, multi-ownership is generally prohibited or very tightly regulated to preserve sporting balance.
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Ben Sulayem shares reservations
The FIA president, while remaining cautious, also acknowledges that the subject is complex. According to him, owning two teams could be acceptable in some very regulated cases, but he expresses doubts about the overall relevance of the system.
“Owning two teams depends on the reasons. But the question is: what are these reasons?” he wonders.
He also adds: “Personally, I don’t think it’s the right direction. We are studying the issue because it’s a complex area.“
The FIA now wants to determine whether this model should be limited, regulated, or possibly reformed to preserve sporting fairness. The topic could have significant consequences on current structures and future investments in the discipline.
As financial stakes in F1 continue to grow, this investigation could well become one of the most sensitive files of the season.
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