FIA respond to Lewis Hamilton’s stewarding jibe regarding perceived bias

The FIA do not agree with Lewis Hamilton’s claims that bias exists among Formula 1 stewards.

At a time when major changes to Race Control are taking place, Hamilton added a new layer to the recovery mission from a controversial 2021 by suggesting some stewards are biased towards certain drivers.

“We need to make sure we get non-biased stewards too,” said Hamilton, quoted by Motorsport.com.

“Racing drivers, some are very, very good friends with certain individuals. Some travel with certain individuals and tend to take more of a keen liking to some of them.

“I just think [we need] people who have no bias and are super-central when it comes to making decisions.”

So far, he has yet to find much support for that viewpoint, with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner believing there is no intended bias from the stewards, while Hamilton’s Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said the same.

Now the FIA have issued their response to Hamilton, also denying the suggestion some stewards are biased.

Instead, they say the “experienced” group of officials always carry out their work with “impartiality”.

An FIA spokesperson told the PA news agency: “The FIA is proud of its global stewarding pathway that connects and develops the most talented stewards from across motorsport.

“This has resulted in a strong, independent and experienced group of officials who carry out their work with impartiality and the utmost professionalism.”

Hamilton’s future in Formula 1 was one of the dominant subjects across the winter break, but the seven-time former World Champion has indeed returned for the 2022 campaign in which he will chase a record eighth World Championship.

He has a new team-mate at Mercedes this season in the form of George Russell.

 

And while Hamilton said he is not one to dwell on the past, he is “excited” to see the FIA report on the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, while also calling for it to be made available to the wider public.

 

 

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