F1 considers raising protest and investigation fees

Formula 1 is weighing the introduction of new fees for investigations and a potential hike in the cost of lodging protests, appeals and reviews, following a recent row between Red Bull and McLaren.

The idea surfaced during the July 22 meeting of the F1 Commission in London, held at Formula One Management’s headquarters.

“It was agreed that the deposit fees for protests, appeals and right of reviews should be evaluated with a view to those fees being adjusted,” the FIA said.

“The introduction of a fee for investigations was also discussed.” The discussions come in the wake of reports that McLaren was angered by Red Bull's alleged insinuations of technical cheating, including claims involving “water in tyres.”

“There’s a proper way to protest a team at the end of the race, and you have to make it formal, disclose where it comes from, you have to put some money down,” McLaren CEO Zak Brown said at the time.

The Commission meeting also included updates on Formula 1’s surging commercial metrics. Reports indicate Apple is bidding $150 million per year to take over U.S. broadcast rights from ESPN. Formula One Management revealed the sport’s global fanbase now stands at 827 million, with a year-on-year 11 percent increase in the U.S. to 52 million fans.

“The fans following Formula 1 continue to get younger, with 43 percent of the total fan base being under 35 years and 42 percent of the fans are female,” the FIA stated. “Alongside this there has been significant growth in social media platforms with a combined following of 106 million compared to 18 million in 2018 and positive increases in TV audiences for the 2025 season so far.

“The positive impact of the F1 movie was highlighted showing the success of the first few weeks following release and the contribution this project will create to bring new fans into the sport. “Commercial momentum was also presented highlighting the new partners that have joined Formula 1 across a range of areas in 2025 and renewals of existing and long-term partners, including several race promotion contracts.

“The importance of achieving long-term sustainability of the sport was discussed and agreed by all stakeholders.”