Formula E Drivers Demand Reforms to Officiating Process

Entire grid signs complaint to FIA president about lack of consistency in stewarding decisions

Mar. 17, 2026 at 8:05pm

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According to a report, the entire Formula E grid has signed a letter to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressing "growing concern regarding the current standard, consistency, and procedural coherence of stewarding and race direction within the championship." The drivers are specifically critical of series race director Marek Hanaczewski, citing a lack of consistency in penalties and unclear applications of the sporting regulations.

Why it matters

Formula E has grown into a well-established championship, but the drivers feel the officiating process has not kept pace. Consistent and fair stewarding is crucial for maintaining the integrity of any racing series, and the drivers' public complaint suggests growing frustration that needs to be addressed.

The details

The letter reportedly suggests remedies ranging from a driver advisory panel with Formula E experience to an independent review of officiating decisions made by Hanaczewski. The direct naming of the race director also implies the drivers are seeking his replacement. The letter was submitted directly to FIA president Ben Sulayem, who is expected to attend the upcoming Formula E round in Madrid, potentially opening the door for dialogue between the drivers and the governing body.

  • The letter was sent out on Wednesday, March 15, 2026.
  • The upcoming Formula E round in Madrid is scheduled for March 18-19, 2026.

The players

Mohammed Ben Sulayem

The president of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the governing body of Formula E and other motorsports.

Marek Hanaczewski

The current race director of the Formula E championship.

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What’s next

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is expected to attend the upcoming Formula E round in Madrid on March 18-19, 2026, potentially opening the door for a direct dialogue between the drivers and the governing body.

The takeaway

This public complaint from the entire Formula E grid highlights the importance of consistent and fair officiating in motorsports. The drivers' frustration with the current race direction suggests the need for reforms to the stewarding process in order to maintain the integrity of the championship.