F1 teams and FIA agree to crucial new charter after Hamilton report

Formula 1 has announced the introduction of a brand-new Diversity and Inclusion charter, signed by all 10 teams and the FIA. 

The new charter has been created with the support of The Royal Academy of Engineering and Mission 44 – the charity set up by Lewis Hamilton to improve diversity, equality and inclusion in grand prix racing, which has historically been seen as a white, male environment. 

The Royal Academy was instrumental in helping Hamilton to publish ‘The Hamilton Commission’ in 2021. 

Since that report was issued, every team, F1 and the FIA itself have set up initiatives to improve diversity, with F1 itself introducing its own in-house female junior racing championship – F1 Academy, which supports grands prix and is run by Susie Wolff.

The new charter will agree “a set of clear joint principles to maintain momentum and continue to maximise diversity across Formula 1, and it sets out a collaborative approach to improve the sport in the months and years ahead,” read a statement, with four key pillars.

These are to attract, retain, create and engage with traditionally underrepresented groups in F1 and to learn from external stakeholders.

Article continues below.

Domenicali and Ben Sulayem address new charter

Reflecting on the news, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the idea of welcoming “diversity of thought” into F1. 

“Our sport is rightly recognised for its elite performance and innovation, and we are clear that the only way to maintain and improve those exceptional standards is to welcome diversity of thought, ideas, and experiences,” he said. 

“The sport is fiercely competitive, and we’re all committed to employing the very best talent. We know from The Hamilton Commission report that there are opportunities for us to work collectively to both find and nurture that talent, and across the sport significant change has already been put in place. 

“The charter is the next important milestone on that journey, and we are all committed to making our sport more open and diverse.”

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem added that the news showed a “united front” between F1, the FIA and the teams.

“The diversification of motor sport is paramount to its continued success. Through ensuring equal opportunity for equal talent, increasing accessibility, and joining together in our commitment to uphold this charter, we will drive forward change,” he said. 

“This landmark partnership between Formula 1, the teams, and our Federation signifies a united course of action which I am proud to be a part of.”