Grand Prix Drivers' Association director, George Russell claims that his colleagues are "a bit fed up" with the sport's governing body.

Already at odds with the FIA over a number of issues, not least the clampdown on swearing, the drivers were shocked to hear that race director Niels Wittich had been 'sacked' without prior warning.

"We definitely weren't aware," Russell told reporters in La Vegas. "It was a bit of a surprise, I think, for everybody.

"It's a hell of a lot of pressure now onto the new race director," he added. "There's just three races left...

"Often as drivers, we probably feel like we're the last to find out this sort of information," he continued. "And when it involves us kind of directly, it would be nice to be kept in the loop and just have an understanding of what decisions are being made."

The GPDA recently issued an open letter to the FIA asking it to treat drivers like adults, questioning not only Mohammed ben Sulayem's stance on swearing but also the wearing of jewellery and non-regulated underwear.

Revealing that there has been no response to the letter, Russell said that in terms of Wittich's firing, "sometimes just hiring and firing is not the solution".

"Let's see what this new era is going to bring," he added, "but every time there is a change, you have to take one step back before you make the two steps forwards."

The sport's governing body has witnessed countless surprise departures in the last year, and while Ben Sulayem's relationship with Formula One Management appears to have improved, there are clearly issues with the drivers.

Asked if he has confidence in Sulayem and the FIA, Russell said: "I think if we feel that we're being listened to and some of the changes that we are experiencing, requesting, are implemented, then maybe our confidence will increase.

"I think there's a number of drivers who feel probably a bit fed up with the whole situation," he added. "And it only seems to be going in, to a degree, the wrong direction.

"We all know what we want from the sport and the direction it's been heading and we probably feel that we want to do a small U-turn on a number of topics and just want to work together with the FIA on this.

"And that's just what we've felt has not been happening at all, at least directly from the president."

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READERS COMMENTS

1. Posted by ffracer, 22/11/2024 14:38

"A far cry from what the F1 circus was like in the early 70's when some elderly friends told me the story of catching a young Emerson Fittipaldi sleeping in the back of a Mercedes station wagon, at Mosport in autumn Canada, cause he missed his JPS Lotus mechanics, long gone for a motel... he was so cool with them and other fans. Another tidbit: Local race clubs were assembled and charged with getting the cars and equipment to Watkins Glen... Naturally, they offered to take the Lotuses every year lolol. Can you imagine?!?!

F1 has grown insanely, bought and sold for billions - teams worth a billion +, logistics, stunning paddock oasis, etc - say what you want about Bernie Ecclestone, but that used car salesman, together with his promoted, loyal Brabham employees, had some vision!"

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2. Posted by ffracer, 21/11/2024 22:21

"George, nobody at Liberty or the FIA is going to give you notice of impending changes or regarding their personal HR issues because it's not for you to weigh in.

Yes, it's a show that gotten quite expensive. Bernie was absolutely right to ask countries for $30 Million/event for his Circus because he provided $100 Million in business (hotels, restaurants, tourism, merchandise, car truck rentals, other logistics to name a few). Look at what increases each city/neighboring area on a GP weekend (hotel rates in Monaco, Las Vegas, Miami are astronomical for a mere mortal pleeb) with no regard to locals.."

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3. Posted by OKielander, 21/11/2024 14:24

"I believe "The show is driving the bus as the FIA is doing Liberty's bidding" Following F1 since a wee lad when Jinny Clark died I care less about F1 today than ever and its is the only sport I follow. Give me back my sport!"

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4. Posted by Superbird70, 21/11/2024 13:17

"The can always strike. 2,4,6,8 we will not accelerate!! 1,2,3,4 give me back that V10 roar!!"

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5. Posted by Spindoctor, 21/11/2024 12:11

"Sorry George, but under the current regime, the Show's The Thing.
Drivers are, after all, merely the "hired help"."

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6. Posted by Wokingchap, 21/11/2024 11:55

"Would be nice of ben to sack himself."

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Drivers are "fed up" with the FIA, claims Russell

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