The FIA’s role in Formula 1 was a contentious topic last season, with several decisions sparking debate across the paddock. Peter Bayer, CEO of Racing Bulls and a former FIA official, has emphasised the critical need for a robust governing body.
Reflecting on the controversies of the past year, Bayer acknowledged the challenges faced by the FIA. "Well, I would be lying if I said it doesn't worry me," he admitted. "It is always difficult because I don't want anyone to comment on the way I run things. So who am I to comment on how the FIA president runs things there?"
Despite his measured stance, Bayer stressed the necessity of holding the FIA accountable, particularly in a sport as fiercely competitive as Formula 1. "On the other hand, we as teams are dependent on a strong FIA, we need that.
"Everyone here is so competitive; this is really a cutthroat sport. If you don't have an organisation that is completely neutral in this and does not interfere with our daily activities, it becomes very difficult," Bayer declared.
FIA needed to balance the sport and the show elements of Formula 1
Bayer warned of the potential risks if the FIA’s neutrality and stability falter: "A strong FIA does guarantee that Formula 1 remains a sport and that it does not become a show, a kind of World Wrestling Entertainment or some similar activity. But how do you get such a strong governing body? I think you do that by building stability and reliability."
Encouragingly, Bayer noted that the FIA appears to be on the right path, with signs of improvement emerging. "The teams know it too: you can bring in the most brilliant people, but that doesn't guarantee success. I think that's why it's so important that the FIA quickly gets on the right track and that the governing body can then grow again. Then we can make sure that we have enough people again."
Bayer highlighted the organisation’s recent strides in enhancing its reputation, sharing insights from his conversations with former FIA president Jean Todt: "The governing body suddenly became a very attractive employer instead of a last stop before you retire. Suddenly more people came into the FIA, who would stay for a few years and then leave to take on leading roles within the sport."
Bayer: We have built something based on continuity, stability, relationships, and transparency
Bayer also cited several examples of individuals who transitioned from FIA roles to influential positions within motorsport, including Laurent Mekies and Marcin Budkowski: "There are so many people who have done that. I am one of them.
"But we have built something based on continuity, stability, relationships, and transparency, and I think that is very important. I think that is also what we expect from the FIA now," insisted the Racing Bulls boss.
As Formula 1 teams continue to rely on the FIA to ensure fairness and integrity in the sport, Bayer’s call for stability and neutrality within the governing body underscores its vital role in shaping the future of motorsport.
Editor's Note: We on this site have always propagated the importance of a powerful, independent and respected Formula 1 governing body, aka a strong FIA.
(Peter Bayer quotes from RacingNews365)
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