In a major development for Formula 1, both Lewis Hamilton and Bernie Ecclestone have voiced support for FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s planned reforms to the sport’s governance. While Ecclestone, the former F1 boss, fully backs the overhaul to improve transparency and operations, Hamilton’s support is conditional. The seven-time world champion insists that these reforms must include strong commitments to diversity and inclusion within the sport’s structure and culture.
Ecclestone praised Ben Sulayem’s proactive approach, stating that F1’s evolution calls for updated leadership and clearer governance. Although the sport has advanced in terms of technology, Ecclestone believes that management reforms are overdue. He emphasized that decisive leadership will be key to ensuring that F1 remains competitive and engaging for fans, teams, and commercial partners alike.
Hamilton, meanwhile, expressed cautious optimism. His endorsement of the reforms depends on whether they meaningfully address long-standing issues related to representation and equality. As a vocal advocate for racial justice and inclusion, Hamilton pointed to past instances where the sport fell short in supporting marginalized voices. For him, reforms must not only modernize governance but also foster an inclusive environment across all levels of F1.
Ben Sulayem, who assumed the FIA presidency in late 2021, has laid out a broad reform plan focusing on transparency, accountability, and fairer rule enforcement. His vision is to create a governing body that not only upholds competitive integrity but also responds effectively to the evolving expectations of the global motorsport community. He appears open to feedback, engaging with key figures like Hamilton and Ecclestone as part of his reform strategy.
The dual backing—though from very different perspectives—represents a pivotal moment for the sport. While Ecclestone focuses on operational efficiency, Hamilton emphasizes social responsibility. Together, their voices stress the need for holistic reform. If the FIA successfully integrates both governance improvements and cultural progress, it could redefine Formula 1’s future—making it not only a world-class sporting event but also a platform that values fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.
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