Formula 1’s governing body president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, is reconsidering the current cost cap system after it has become increasingly difficult to manage. Speaking ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, Ben Sulayem expressed his frustration with the cost cap, which limits how much teams can spend. Introduced in 2021, the cap was meant to level the playing field by preventing wealthier teams from outspending their smaller competitors on development. However, the FIA now faces significant challenges in monitoring teams’ spending to ensure compliance.
The cost cap for the 2025 season is set at $140.4 million, but Ben Sulayem questioned its purpose, stating it had become a major headache for the FIA. “I don’t see the point. I really don’t,” he said, expressing doubts about its effectiveness.
Additionally, Ben Sulayem voiced support for a proposal by McLaren Racing boss Zak Brown. Brown suggested that teams making allegations against others should be required to submit a formal complaint along with a monetary deposit. If the allegation is proven true, the deposit would be refunded, but if the allegation is found to be baseless, the deposit would be deducted from the cost cap as a deterrent against false claims. Ben Sulayem agreed with this idea, even suggesting a $50,000 fee for such complaints.
On another issue, Ben Sulayem confirmed that the FIA would soon provide clarification regarding the driver code of conduct, particularly the rule prohibiting profanity. Despite criticism from drivers across various series, Ben Sulayem made it clear that the ban on swearing would remain in place, though adjustments to how the rule is enforced may be coming next week.
