Russell: Our actions are having little impact on the FIA’s direction

Russell, who serves as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), was responding to the resignation of Robert Reid, who stepped down from his position as FIA Deputy President for Sport. In his resignation statement, Reid cited a “breakdown in governance standards” and an erosion of transparency and accountability under FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Russell told reporters in Bahrain: “Clearly a real shame to see somebody who’s very well respected within the sport and has been there for so long… as we keep saying it’s like ‘what’s next?’.

“Ultimately it is getting to a point now where these things are happening so often. Things seem to be continuously going in an unstable direction. I’ve got to be honest, we are getting to a point now where our actions are having little impact with those guys."

“I know all of the drivers have 100 per cent trust in Stefano [Domenicali, F1 CEO] and F1, and we know that they work together with the teams. It is in all of our interest to make something come of all of this and just see stability and collaboration," explained Russell.

Reid, who previously served as co-driver to 2001 World Rally Champion Richard Burns, said in his resignation statement: “I took on this role to help deliver greater transparency, stronger governance and more collaborative leadership.

“Over time, those principles have been increasingly set aside and I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that no longer reflects them. Motorsport deserves leadership rooted in integrity, accountability and respect for process. That’s the minimum standard we should all expect and demand.”

The FIA responded by thanking Reid for his service, stating: “The FIA is grateful for Robert Reid’s contribution to the FIA and to motorsport more widely. The FIA has exceptionally robust corporate governance policies which guide our operations and ensure our rules, practices and processes are adhered to.”