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Formula One Group controversies

Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.

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  1. 2021

    Formula One faces criticism over Belgian Grand Prix

    Public backlash

    Formula One faced criticism after the Belgian Grand Prix was run for only a few laps behind the safety car and half-points were awarded. Drivers and McLaren boss Zak Brown criticized the outcome and called for the rules to be reviewed.

    Source excerpt

    • McLaren boss Zak Brown called for the rules to be overhauled to prevent such a situation happening again.
    • Just calling it a race takes a mighty stretch of the imagination -- a delay of more than three hours with crowds enduring cold and rain to see a few processional laps behind the safety car in heavy spray and no overtaking.
    • Half points were then handed out for only the sixth time ever.
  2. 2004

    Bank litigation over control of Formula One

    Banks holding interests connected with SLEC sued Bernie Ecclestone seeking greater control over the sport's commercial governance. A British court later ruled in favor of the banks' legal contentions, although Ecclestone maintained that the decision did not remove his practical control.

  3. 1999

    European Commission competition investigation

    The European Commission announced an investigation into the FIA, Formula One Administration, and International Sportsworld Communicators concerning alleged abuse of a dominant position and restrictions on competition in broadcasting and related rights arrangements.