Felipe Massa Launches Legal Battle Against Formula 1, FIA, and Bernie Ecclestone

Former Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa has taken legal action against Formula 1, the FIA, and former F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone over the controversial circumstances surrounding his loss in the 2008 championship.

Despite finishing as the runner-up to Lewis Hamilton in the 2008 season by just one point, Massa’s lawsuit centers on the events of the Singapore Grand Prix. During this race, Renault driver Nelson Piquet Jr. allegedly crashed intentionally, benefiting the strategy of his teammate Fernando Alonso. Massa, who was leading at the time of the crash, faced setbacks including a botched pit stop during a safety car period, which ultimately cost him crucial points. Hamilton’s third-place finish in the race further exacerbated Massa’s disappointment.

The scandal, famously dubbed “Crashgate,” only came to public attention nearly a year later, following Piquet Jr.’s dismissal from Renault. Ecclestone’s claim in a 2023 interview, suggesting prior awareness of the allegations by himself and then FIA president Max Mosley, further fueled Massa’s pursuit of justice.

In response to Ecclestone’s interview, Massa and his legal team demanded acknowledgment of his rightful claim to the 2008 championship. Efforts to reach a resolution outside of the courtroom were unsuccessful, leading Massa to file a lawsuit at London’s High Court against Formula 1, the FIA, and Ecclestone.

The lawsuit seeks declarations that the FIA violated its regulations by failing to promptly investigate the Singapore Grand Prix incident, alleging that proper action would have resulted in Massa winning the championship. Massa also seeks damages for the financial losses incurred due to the FIA’s alleged negligence, implicating Ecclestone and FOM (Formula One Management) in the process.

Ecclestone’s acknowledgment of the circumstances in 2008, suggesting that the race in Singapore could have been canceled and Massa declared champion, serves as a crucial element in Massa’s legal pursuit. The statement highlights Massa’s determination to seek justice and underscores ongoing concerns regarding transparency and integrity within Formula One.

As Massa’s legal battle unfolds, it casts a spotlight on the need for accountability and reform within the sport, emphasizing the importance of restoring its credibility for its long-term viability.