Danica Patrick, a former racing driver and now a commentator for Sky Sports, is facing an investigation by the FIA following her controversial remarks about Lando Norris and Max Verstappen during the Dutch Grand Prix 2024. The investigation centers on whether her statements violated any regulations or standards expected from media personalities.

Patrick stirred up a storm with her strong opinions on Norris’s victory at the Dutch GP, where she openly questioned the legitimacy of his win. Her comments suggested that Norris did not deserve to take first place, which sparked significant backlash from fans and members of the racing community. The criticism of Norris has led to a wider debate on the role and responsibility of commentators in shaping public perception of the sport.

The FIA is now looking into whether Patrick’s comments crossed the line of impartiality, potentially undermining the integrity of Norris’s performance. The probe will examine whether her statements were merely harsh criticism or if they reflected an unfair bias, and whether such remarks are acceptable within the standards of conduct for broadcasters in the sport.

Patrick’s comments about Max Verstappen, who had a challenging race at the Dutch GP, are also under scrutiny. Her critical remarks regarding Verstappen’s performance and the race conditions have been viewed as excessively harsh, raising concerns about the impact of such statements on the reputation of a top-tier driver.

The outcome of the FIA’s investigation is eagerly awaited, as it will address the broader implications of media commentary on the sport. This case highlights the delicate balance commentators must maintain between offering insightful critique and ensuring they do not unduly influence public perception or damage the reputation of the drivers and teams involved