Source: REUTERS/ BENOIT TESSIER
[Saba Sports News] During the 2024 season, the FIA issued approximately €270,000 in fines (excluding deferred fines) covering over 50 violations, including speeding in the pit lane, blocking, unsafe behavior, crossing the track, and using inappropriate language, among others. In response to criticisms from drivers like George Russell regarding the transparency of the use of FIA fine funds, they questioned whether these funds would be reinvested into grassroots motorsport as promised. In response, FIA technical director Nicholas Tongbazis addressed the drivers’ criticisms, explaining the specific uses of the fine funds, stating that they have all been used to support grassroots projects and social initiatives. Last year alone, over €10 million was invested in this area. This includes support for clubs and projects in multiple countries and promoting the initial development of grassroots motorsport activities. Tongbazis emphasized that the long-term healthy development of F1 largely depends on the appeal of the entire motorsport, which requires not only hosting exciting Grand Prix events but also ensuring that more people can participate in low-barrier grassroots motorsport activities in their own countries, which will ultimately have a positive impact on F1. Additionally, in nurturing drivers, enabling them to grow through the promotion ladder, even if they may not come from affluent families, is one of the FIA’s goals.