The Formula One fan behind the petition demanding Max Verstappen is stripped of his maiden F1 crown has claimed the FIA’s decision was a “disgrace”. Patel Gordon-Bennett set up a poll demanding the result of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was “overturned” in Lewis Hamilton’s favour after watching the race at home with family.
The appeal has now been signed more than 100,000 times and still garners wide support almost 18 months on from the race. She told RaceFans: “As soon as we saw the injustice, we were in shock and disbelief. I felt that this was a scheme to rob Mercedes and Lewis just as it was when they changed the rules to suit Red Bull’s car.
“Lewis had always been speaking out on others’ behalf – the disadvantaged, the disenfranchised and those without a voice. I felt it was time we spoke up to help Lewis when he was being faced with injustice.
“In addition, it was disgraceful to the sport to see how one person can change the rules in the spur of the moment to get the result they want.” The result was mired in controversy after a late-race safety car completely changed the dynamics of the race.
Hamilton lost his comfortable lead with Verstappen able to pit for fresh sift tyres and gain an immediate advantage which enabled him to win. But, much of the blame was pointed at race director Michael Masi after the Australian refused to allow all lapped cars to overtake the leader.
Instead, only drivers between Hamilton and Verstappen were able to pass the safety car which created a disadvantage for many. The FIA conducted a thorough investigation and concluded that “human error” was to blame.
Masi was axed from his role ahead of the 2022 campaign with Niels Wittich and Eduardo Freitas taking over at the helm. Earlier this week ex-British F1 driver Tiff Needell suggested there was no chance F1 bosses would overturn the title under pressure from supporters.
He told Express Sport: “We can’t change those as much as anyone might want to. They can’t do. I think if you cancel the race Max is still leading the championship. I can’t see any races being annulled or any championships being removed.”
However, Gordon-Bennett has admitted she never expected the petition to receive the support it has. The poll organiser admits there has been no response from officials but admitted she would love to meet seven-time champion Hamilton.
She added: “No feedback from anyone in motorsport or F1 or from Hamilton. From the latter, it would be marvellous just to meet him.”
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