Three drivers have already paid for their 2009 licenses!

F1 drivers have started paying for their licenses, despite an increase in the fee.

Additionally, the F1 drivers’ association (GPDA) has urged its members not to pay this license while it continues discussions with the FIA. The aim is to restructure the way the fees are calculated.

Last year, a significant increase was observed when the license went from 1,690 euros in 2007 to 10,000 euros in 2008. The GPDA is complaining about a new increase for this season.

The association published a statement at the end of last week asserting that the increase was fundamentally unfair and indicating that the drivers should not be used as a source of revenue to bolster the FIA’s budget. It appears that some drivers have already paid the requested sum of money to the governing body.

The FIA confirmed that three drivers have deposited the corresponding amount with the organization.

A spokesperson for the FIA stated: « We can confirm that the FIA has received payment from three drivers. »

Although the GPDA is unhappy with the situation, the organization clarified that discussing a possible strike at the Australian Grand Prix does not represent Formula 1.

« Everyone will need to be careful about how the subject is handled because we might hear about ‘Dissatisfied Drivers’ or ‘Drivers on Strike’, » said Sebastian Vettel earlier this week.

« The strike was never discussed. But we are not satisfied with how the increases were presented. We are open to collaborating with the FIA. »