A fresh storm of controversy has erupted in the Formula 1 world as Eddie Jordan, the outspoken former team owner and pundit, has launched scathing accusations against the FIA, claiming manipulation in favor of McLaren’s rising star, Lando Norris. The claims come in the wake of the sudden resignation of F1 Race Director Michael Schmidt, which has fueled rampant speculation about behind-the-scenes conflicts.

The controversy stems from a series of contentious decisions made during the most recent Grand Prix, where Norris managed to secure a podium finish in what many saw as a fiercely contested race. Critics, including Jordan, allege that some of the rulings, including penalty calls and track limit enforcements, disproportionately benefited Norris.

Eddie Jordan did not mince words in his criticism, stating during a televised interview:
“What we’ve witnessed is blatant manipulation. It’s as if the FIA has decided Norris is the golden boy of F1. The sport’s integrity is at stake when these decisions consistently favor one driver.”

Adding fuel to the fire, Race Director Michael Schmidt announced his resignation immediately after the Grand Prix, citing “personal reasons.” However, many in the paddock believe the timing is far from coincidental. Schmidt had faced mounting criticism for inconsistencies in officiating this season, but his sudden exit has led to speculation that internal pressure or external interference may have played a role.

Jordan further claimed Schmidt’s resignation could be tied to a “cover-up” of biased decision-making, calling for an independent investigation into the FIA’s conduct.

Lando Norris has dismissed the accusations, calling them “baseless” and expressing disappointment in the narrative.
“I’ve worked hard for every result this season, and to have my achievements overshadowed by conspiracy theories is disheartening. I trust the FIA and the officials to be fair.”

Norris’s McLaren team has also defended their driver, with team principal Andrea Stella stating that any accusations of favoritism are “ridiculous” and undermining to the sport.

The F1 community is deeply divided over the situation. While some fans side with Jordan, pointing to questionable calls during the race, others argue that Jordan’s claims are exaggerated and driven by his reputation for controversy.

Social media has been ablaze with opinions:

• “Jordan has a point—too many decisions this season have gone in Norris’s favor.”
• “This is just sour grapes. Norris is performing, and Jordan can’t handle it.”

The FIA has yet to release an official response to Jordan’s accusations, but insiders suggest the governing body is considering addressing the concerns publicly to restore confidence in its officiating.

Meanwhile, calls for a clearer and more transparent decision-making process in F1 are growing louder. With the departure of Schmidt, the FIA faces pressure to ensure that the next Race Director brings stability and consistency to the role.

Eddie Jordan’s fiery accusations have cast a shadow over what has been an otherwise thrilling F1 season. Whether or not his claims hold weight, they have intensified scrutiny on the FIA and its role in maintaining a level playing field in the sport. For now, the world of Formula 1 waits to see how this latest drama unfolds—and whether it will lead to lasting changes in how the sport is governed.