Formula Unjust: What Formula One Can Learn from the American Justice System to Improve Stewarding

Authors

Apratim Vidyarthi

Abstract

Formula One (F1), the highest form of motorsport, is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, attracting millions of viewers and billions of dollars in investment and prize money. But recent events in F1 have raised questions about the fairness of the sport. This Article contends that the current system of officiating creates unfair outcomes, because officials have overwhelming discretion to make pivotal decisions that significantly impact the outcome of races, and because penalties are applied inconsistently and cannot be appealed. Given the increased professionalization of F1 and the high financial stakes involved, these problems need to be remedied. This Article takes cues from the U.S. justice system to propose three solutions: limits to the executive discretion of Officials, a standardization of penalties, and a formalized appellate system for penalties.

Recommended Citation

Apratim Vidyarthi, Formula Unjust: What Formula One Can Learn from the American Justice System to Improve Stewarding, 45 UC Law SF Comm. & Ent. L.J. 1 (2023).
Available at: https://repository.uclawsf.edu/hastings_comm_ent_law_journal/vol45/iss1/2