FIA outlines steps of investigation into Abu Dhabi F1 GP

In the FIA’s first official communication since announcing its intention to launch a probe into the conclusion of the Abu Dhabi race in the days that followed the contentious 2021 season finale, the governing body confirmed it has now begun a “detailed analysis”, which is being led by new president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. 

A statement released by the FIA on Thursday said that the use of the Safety Car will be discussed at a meeting of the Sporting Advisory Committee next week. Recently-appointed single-seater director Peter Bayer has also been tasked with reviewing the organisation of the “FIA F1 structure”. 

The results of the investigation are set to be presented to the World Motor Sport Council at the next meeting on February 3, before “final decisions” are announced just two days before the 2022 season begins in Bahrain on 18 March. 

"Following the decision to the World Motor Sport Council in Paris on 15 December 2021, the FIA administration, under the leadership of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has started the detailed analysis of the events of the last Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix," the FIA statement read. 

"The FIA president launched a consultation with all F1 teams on various issues, including this one.

"On January 19, an item on the agenda of the Sporting Advisory Committee will be dedicated to the use of the Safety Car.

"The following stage will be a shared discussion with all F1 drivers.

"The outcome of the detailed analysis will be presented to the F1 Commission in February and final decisions will be announced at the World Motor Sport Council in Bahrain on 18 March.

"FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has asked Secretary General Sport and recently-appointed Single-Seater Director Peter Bayer for proposals to review and optimise the organisation of the FIA F1 structure for the 2022 season.”

It comes after reports emerged earlier this week that Lewis Hamilton is considering his F1 future and will not decide whether to return to fight for a record-breaking eighth world title this season until he sees the results of the FIA’s investigation.