The handling of the sport's rules during the safety-car period that ultimately decided the drivers' title in Max Verstappen's favour has focused a deeper discontent that already lurked beneath the surface of the sport.
F1 teams and drivers were dismayed by the events at the end of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, after a season in which many have complained about the consistency of the FIA's decision making.
Many felt the rules were not followed correctly at Yas Marina, and now a number of F1 insiders believe that changes need to be made at the FIA.
The subject is controversial, so senior figures have not been prepared to speak on the record in the immediate aftermath of the race.
But a number have told BBC Sport that at least half the F1 teams have lost confidence in race director Michael Masi, and that many of the drivers have concerns as well.