Table of contents
- A breach in the system: FIA under cyberattack
- Exposed personal data: the greatest risk
- FIA’s official response
- Lessons for the digital Formula 1 era
A breach in the system: FIA under cyberattack
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has confirmed it was the target of a cyberattack last June. The results of its internal investigation, released this week, reveal a serious vulnerability in its IT systems that allowed hackers to access sensitive data belonging to Formula 1 drivers.
Hackers reportedly created a personal account and exploited a firewall weakness, gaining administrator privileges that opened access to private information.
Exposed personal data: the greatest risk
According to cyber security researcher Ian Carroll, internal testing revealed it was possible to access passports, driver’s licenses, and even passwords linked to Max Verstappen, along with data on FIA internal operations.
While no data was copied or leaked, the case highlights the fragility of the FIA’s digital infrastructure, exposing potential risks for future breaches.
FIA’s official response
In a statement to RaceFans, the FIA confirmed it took its website offline on June 3, the same day the attack was detected, and notified authorities immediately.
The organization announced new investments in cyber security, adopting a “security by design” approach for all upcoming digital projects and strengthening its data protection protocols for drivers, teams, and staff.
Lessons for the digital Formula 1 era
The incident reignited debate over cyber security in sports. In a world where data has become a strategic asset, the FIA must now prove it can turn this breach into a catalyst for technological evolution, ensuring resilience, transparency, and trust in its digital operations.
