FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem considers it "inevitable" that Formula One will become a much more political environment than ever before.

Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel and others have been leading the way in raising political and environmental issues in the paddock, which is theoretically against FIA statutes.

"Unfortunately, it's inevitable," Ben Sulayem told . "Of course you try to separate sport from politics, as one of the FIA's main values is neutrality. Sport should always be the focus."

"However, sometimes acting politically is unavoidable. I always say it's okay to be political, but we just can't become political. We need to keep the balance."

He said that while Niki Lauda and Alain Prost focused solely on F1, Vettel is "committed to environmental protection and tolerance in sexual orientation. Lewis is committed to fighting racism. Lando Norris addresses the sensitive issue of mental health."

"All of this demonstrates how diverse our world has become, with numerous issues that need to be faced. However, one should also not impose their worldview on others and put it above sport. I am a Muslim, but would I force my culture on other people? Never!"

At the same time, F1's popularity is on the rise, but Ben Sulayem believes this is due to covid-19.

"The pandemic has changed people's attitude, they want to have fun again and enjoy life as before. There is also the United States, where F1 is popping. We have had American drivers and racing before, but what is happening now is different."

"We need to keep this momentum going with a healthy balance between sport, entertainment and business."