Guenther Steiner Criticized FIA Intervention for Aston Martin
Guenther Steiner challenged Mohammed Ben Sulayem over FIA efforts to assist Aston Martin's performance.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Motorsports
Live Poll
Should sports governing bodies intervene to help struggling teams keep star athletes competitive?
Former team principal Guenther Steiner has criticized FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem for offering assistance to help improve Aston Martin's performance. The intervention centers on concerns regarding the competitive standing of two-time world champion Fernando Alonso.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights tensions over the FIA's role in providing technical or legal aid to specific teams. Ben Sulayem expressed concern that Alonso could be forced into early retirement if his team remains uncompetitive.
Cadillac joined the Formula 1 grid in 2026 as the 11th team but has yet to score any points this season. Fernando Alonso, a two-time world champion, is currently under contract with Aston Martin through the end of the 2026 season.
The players
Guenther Steiner
He is a former team principal in Formula 1 known for his leadership and outspoken personality.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem
He serves as the President of the FIA, the governing body for world motorsport.
Fernando Alonso
He is a two-time Formula 1 world champion currently driving for the Aston Martin team.
Aston Martin
This is a Formula 1 constructor based in Silverstone that competes at the highest level of motorsport.
Cadillac
This manufacturer entered the Formula 1 grid as the 11th team for the 2026 season.
The details
An FIA spokesperson confirmed the aid mentioned by Ben Sulayem relates to the existing additional development and upgrade opportunities (ADUO) system. Ben Sulayem has stated he plans to speak with Alonso directly to identify what the driver needs to achieve better results.
Timeline
In May 2026, the FIA provided legal aid to Aston Martin regarding engine improvements.
During the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix, Mohammed Ben Sulayem commented on Fernando Alonso's performance.
Fernando Alonso's current contract with Aston Martin is set to expire at the end of the 2026 season.
Season Trajectory
The dispute over technical aid impacts the competitive balance of the 2026 grid as teams vie for position. It specifically highlights the FIA's management of the additional development and upgrade opportunities (ADUO) system.
The outcome of these discussions will determine whether Aston Martin can utilize specific development upgrades to improve their standing before the end of the 2026 season. This affects the overall championship math for the constructors' standings.
The takeaway
The situation underscores the ongoing pressure on regulatory bodies to maintain parity among competitors. Fans and stakeholders should monitor upcoming FIA technical bulletins to see if the ADUO criteria undergo further refinement.
Further reading
For more on the current technical regulations and team developments, visit Motorsports.
Live Poll
Should sports governing bodies intervene to help struggling teams keep star athletes competitive?
