FIA to investigate F1 rules after controversial Abu Dhabi title-decider

The FIA will investigate the rules and circumstances surrounding the controversial F1 title decider in Abu Dhabi.

Max Verstappen and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner celebrate at Yas Marina Circuit. (Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool)

Max Verstappen won the 2021 Formula 1 World Championship after overtaking Lewis Hamilton on the final lap following a safety car restart.

The FIA says "misunderstanding from Formula 1 teams, drivers and fans" has caused controversy that "is currently tarnishing the image of the championship and the due celebration of the first Drivers' World Championship title won by Max Verstappen…"

FIA President Jean Todt proposed to the World Motor Sport Council that "a detailed analysis and clarification exercise" be taken to avoid a repeat of the circumstances.

"This matter will be discussed and addressed with all the teams and drivers to draw any lessons from this situation and clarity to be provided to the participants, media, and fans about the current regulations to preserve the competitive nature of our sport while ensuring the safety of the drivers and officials," said the FIA in a statement.

"It is not only Formula 1 that may benefit from this analysis, but also more generally all the other FIA circuit championships."

"The FIA will therefore do its utmost to have this in motion within the Formula 1 governance and will propose to the Formula 1 Commission to give a clear mandate for study and proposal to the Sporting Advisory Committee, with the support of Formula 1 drivers, so that any identified meaningful feedback and conclusions be made before the beginning of the 2022 season."