A Formula 1 icon has voiced sharp criticism of the FIA, the sport’s governing body, following a contentious decision at the recent Brazilian Grand Prix, which has sparked ongoing debate.
The race at Interlagos saw Max Verstappen claim victory after starting from 17th position, a challenge compounded by multiple incidents and race restarts. However, controversy began before the race even officially began, when Lance Stroll’s Aston Martin crashed into the gravel during the formation lap, leading to an aborted start and further confusion across the grid.
Once the race eventually got underway, worsening conditions, including heavy rain, led to several crashes, red flags, and a rare black flag — the first since 2007 — as well as a virtual safety car on lap 28. Under VSC conditions, drivers are allowed to pit, often gaining a significant advantage over those who opt to stay out.
At the time of the VSC, race leader George Russell entered the pits, but the timing allowed both Alpines and Verstappen’s Red Bull to overtake him and claim the top three spots.
The FIA has faced additional criticism over the race’s management, particularly surrounding Verstappen’s early exit from qualifying. In a controversial moment during Saturday’s qualifying session, a late red flag caused by Stroll’s crash severely hindered Verstappen’s chances of advancing to Q2. The FIA only issued the red flag 40 seconds after the incident, affecting Verstappen’s final lap and forcing him to start from 17th position.
Former team principal Eddie Jordan took to the *Formula for Success* podcast with David Coulthard to discuss the FIA’s handling of the situation, suggesting the decision was unfair to Verstappen. “Are you telling me that Max was dealt a fair deal? Was he dealt a fair deal when the red flag came out, six or seven cars later?” Jordan said, addressing his co-host. “Come on, David, don’t be stupid.”
As F1 takes a brief break before the final triple-header of the season, the debate over the FIA’s decisions at the Brazilian GP continues to spark controversy among fans and pundits alike.