Awkward moment between Horner and Sulayem at FIA gala

An awkward moment ensued between Christian Horner and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem at the FIA Price Giving Gala 2022. In his speech, the Red Bull Racing team boss referred to the confusion in Japan when Max Verstappen won his second world title.

The Japanese Grand Prix caused much confusion not only among fans, but also among the teams and drivers themselves. After the shortened rain race at Suzuka, it was thought that only half of the points would be handed out, leaving Verstappen to wait for his second world title. However, it turned out that the FIA did hand out the full points as the race was completed. In the cool down room after the race, Verstappen himself also did not know whether he had won his second title or not.

At the FIA gala, where Verstappen and Red Bull were presented with their trophies, Horner again highlighted the confusion that arose in Japan. Sulayem seizes his chance to set the situation straight once more.

"One thing you said about Japan, Japan you said was controversial. No. The FIA was blamed for the points, but it was not the FIA which made the rules. It was the teams who made the rules, and we were implementing it," the FIA president responded to Horner's words.

Before Sulayem can finish his talk, Stefano Domenicali cuts him off. "Okay guys, let’s stay focused"m," laughed the Formula 1 CEO. Sulayem then proceeded to congratulate Horner for winning the constructors' championship.