FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem made notably critical remarks about the budget cap in Formula 1 during the Grand Prix weekend in Miami. The Emirati openly questioned the relevance of this guideline within the sport. The budget cap was introduced in 2021 to limit team spending and create a level playing field for all participants.
In a conversation with the Associated Press, Ben Sulayem questioned whether financial restrictions still have a place in modern Formula 1. Currently, teams are allowed to spend a maximum of about $140 million per season. According to many, the price cap forms an important foundation for the financial health of the teams and is also an essential tool to ensure a fair championship.
‘What is the purpose of a budget cap?’
However, criticism is now coming from the FIA president. “I look at the cost cap and it only gives the FIA a headache,” Ben Sulayem told the AP. “So what’s the point of it? I don’t see the point. Really not.” The Emirati further confirmed that the current guidelines regarding coarse language are still in effect. Sulayem previously raised eyebrows by suggesting he would reconsider the severe penalties drivers risk for using swear words. Since 2024, he has wanted to crack down harder on verbal misconduct. Thanks to him, offenders now risk high fines and even deduction of World Championship points.
Amid these tensions, Ben Sulayem seemed to support a proposal by McLaren CEO Zak Brown. The American had previously advocated for a change in the protest policy; when a team files a protest, the required amount should be deducted from the budget cap and only refunded if the protest proves to be valid. The proposal follows earlier allegations of cheating. Max Verstappen is suspected by McLaren of using illegal tricks to cool the tires.
