GPDA announce surprise F1 driver as new director after Vettel exit

The Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) has named Carlos Sainz as a director ahead of the new F1 season. Sainz has taken over the position vacated by four-time champion Sebastian Vettel, who retired from the sport at the end of the 2022 season. The GPDA serves to offer F1 drivers a collective voice on various matters that they can raise to the FIA and the sport itself. Sainz is entering his 11th F1 campaign and has joined Williams for the new season following a four-season stint with Ferrari. His new venture with Williams will come with the added responsibility of being a director alongside Mercedes' George Russell, who has held the position since 2021. “I am passionate about my sport and think we drivers have a responsibility to do all we can to work with the stakeholders to forward the sport in many aspects," Sainz said.  “So I'm very happy and proud to do my part by taking on the director's role in the GPDA.” Sainz's appointment to the role comes amid tensions between the drivers and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The GPDA released a public letter late last year in which it questioned the way the president addressed the drivers. There is also an ongoing debate regarding the use of swear words, with the FIA looking to stamp out the profanities while some drivers have warned against taking away passion behind the wheel. Sainz will take a key role in navigating the issues this year as part of his new responsibilities. “We are delighted to welcome Carlos as GPDA Director,” said GPDA chairman Alex Wurz.  “He has been an active and engaged member of the GPDA for several years and we sincerely appreciate his commitment in stepping up to this vital role.”