The Formula 1 paddock is facing a major controversy after the international governing body slapped Daily Mail's veteran sports writer Jonathan McEvoy with a ban for the remainder of the 2026 season. The British journalist discovered the suspension of his permanent media pass after receiving formal communication regarding the disciplinary measure.
The notification was issued directly by FIA General Manager Alberto Villarreal Gutierrez rather than through the media department or the president's office. This action follows McEvoy's critical commentary regarding Scuderia Ferrari and Charles Leclerc following the controversial on-track incident involving his teammate Lewis Hamilton at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
An FIA spokesperson defended the decision by reiterating that media accreditation remains granted entirely at the discretion of the governing body under strict professional guidelines. Consequently, McEvoy will be barred from covering the upcoming triple-header events in Las Vegas, Qatar, and the Abu Dhabi season finale.
In response to the sanction, the Daily Mail announced a complete boycott of F1 coverage in solidarity, condemning the measure as an unprecedented assault on journalistic freedom. Head of Sport Chris Dean labeled the federation's heavy-handed reaction unacceptable and urged immediate reinstatement of the reporter's credentials.
The penalty has sparked widespread debate across the motorsport community, with former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone describing the ban as completely mad. McEvoy expressed gratitude for the overwhelming wave of private and public support received from figures throughout the international racing paddock.
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