In the high-speed world of Formula One, the tension is not only found on the track—it simmers behind the scenes, in boardrooms and regulatory chambers. As Liberty Media continues to push the sport toward Americanized spectacle and commercial expansion, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) finds itself at a crossroads: preserve its role as regulator or risk becoming a symbolic bystander. The question on everyone’s mind: Who really runs Formula One?
The Power Players
At the heart of F1’s governance lies a fragile tripartite balance between the FIA (governing body), the FOM (Formula One Management, controlled by Liberty Media), and the ten teams. While the FIA sets the sporting and technical regulations, Liberty Media owns the commercial rights and controls the branding, media distribution, and event promotion. This model worked for decades under Bernie Ecclestone, who brokered power between all factions. But Liberty Media’s approach is different—it’s more aggressive, more public, and more corporate.
A Cold War of Influence
Since Liberty Media’s acquisition of F1 in 2017, there has been an observable shift in tone. The American media conglomerate has emphasized growth in new markets, Netflix-style storytelling, and monetization through entertainment platforms like Drive to Survive. This strategy has undeniably brought in millions of new fans—but not without consequences.
The FIA, traditionally a conservative steward of motorsport purity, has raised concerns over commercial excess and the potential dilution of racing integrity. In recent years, several flashpoints have exposed the growing rift:
- 2021 Abu Dhabi GP Controversy: The FIA’s handling of the race’s chaotic ending led to public outrage, internal review, and Michael Masi’s removal—drawing criticism not only from fans but also from Liberty Media, who felt the integrity of the product was damaged.
- 2023 Las Vegas GP Planning: Liberty Media went full throttle with a made-for-TV event in the heart of the Strip. The FIA’s role was notably diminished, and tensions flared when questions arose over late-night sessions, circuit safety, and local disruptions.
- Sustainability and Calendar Expansion: The FIA has pushed for environmental responsibility, while Liberty Media aggressively adds races in high-revenue markets like Saudi Arabia, Miami, and Qatar. The governing body’s influence over the calendar is increasingly symbolic.
The Jean Todt to Mohammed Ben Sulayem Shift
The election of Mohammed Ben Sulayem as FIA President in late 2021 marked a new chapter. Unlike his predecessor Jean Todt—who often maintained behind-the-scenes diplomacy—Ben Sulayem has shown a willingness to clash openly with Liberty. His public criticism of the sport’s $20 billion valuation and comments about gender roles have raised eyebrows, leading to speculation that Liberty Media is quietly working to reduce the FIA’s influence altogether.
In 2023, Liberty even considered a legal response to Ben Sulayem’s comments, and internal memos revealed frustration with the FIA’s unpredictability. The rift grew deeper when the FIA sought to impose stricter approval processes for new team entries (like Andretti-Cadillac), conflicting with Liberty’s commercial ambitions.
A Fragile Truce?
Despite all this, both entities recognize that their coexistence is mutually beneficial—for now. Liberty needs the FIA’s legitimacy to maintain global sport governance compliance (via the World Motor Sport Council and United Nations recognition). The FIA, meanwhile, benefits financially and reputationally from its association with one of the world’s most watched sports.
But whispers of a future where Liberty Media seeks to marginalize, or even sever ties with, the FIA are growing louder. Would Liberty push for an independent league under its own umbrella? Could the FIA tighten the regulatory screws, risking team and fan alienation?
Who Really Holds the Keys?
In truth, Formula One’s control is neither in one entity’s hands nor clearly defined. Liberty Media may steer the ship commercially, but the FIA owns the waters it’s sailing in. This uneasy alliance is rooted in decades-old contracts, political negotiation, and the ever-changing landscape of global sport governance.
As F1 enters its next phase of globalization—with rumored races in Africa, further U.S. expansion, and evolving tech regulations—the battle between spectacle and stewardship, between profit and principle, will only intensify.
So, who controls Formula One? The answer may depend not on who should, but on who’s willing to fight hardest for it.