The Guardian understands the allegations were not taken seriously in what is the latest in a series of incidents considered poorly handled by Ben Sulayem which have led to widespread unhappiness with his leadership in the F1 paddock. The FIA, however, issued a rebuttal stating it took the allegations seriously and that it had followed procedures. “With regards to the specific allegations surrounding Shaila-Ann Rao, due process was followed, with an amicable negotiation conducted by the president of the senate and, as such, no referrals were made to the ethics committee. Formula One has agreed to implement a new format for its sprint race weekends, beginning at this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix. “With regards to the other allegations, there have been no complaints received against the president. The FIA reacted to that by stating that the comment did not reflect the president’s current beliefs but Ben Sulayem made no formal statement or apology.

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