FIA president seeks crackdown as drivers sent strong...

FIA president seeks crackdown as drivers sent strong warning in… Read More

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has issued a stern warning to teams and drivers about abusive comments directed at stewards and officials of the sport’s governing body. In a strong written statement posted on his Instagram, Ben Sulayem emphasized the correlation between negative remarks from key figures in the paddock and an increase in online abuse aimed at FIA personnel.

The Emirati official stressed that this kind of behavior is unacceptable and that the FIA is taking decisive action to combat it. He noted that recent investigations have shown a clear link between derogatory comments made by drivers and team members, and the subsequent wave of hate directed towards officials on social media.

To address this issue, the World Motor Sport Council recently approved a change to the definition of misconduct within the International Sporting Code (ISC). This amendment was made in response to incidents where high-profile members of the sport made statements that incited abuse towards officials.

Ben Sulayem made it clear that this change is designed to provide additional support to FIA officials and volunteers who dedicate their time to improving the sport, ensuring it remains safe and fair. He expressed his full support for the stewards and emphasized that they must be prepared to act decisively when confronted with this type of abuse. The new regulations will empower the FIA to fine and punish drivers, team principals, or other key staff members for any abusive comments directed at the governing body’s officials.

This crackdown follows controversial remarks made by reigning champion Max Verstappen during the Hungarian Grand Prix. Verstappen, who was frustrated after a crash with Lewis Hamilton, made sarcastic comments about the medical delegate and the stewards. When informed that a medical delegate would examine him after the race, Verstappen retorted, “Let them send that medical delegate to the stewards to see if they are okay. I’m completely fine.”

Ben Sulayem’s statement is a clear indication that the FIA will not tolerate any form of abuse within the sport, whether it occurs on the track or online. The new measures are intended to protect the integrity of the sport and ensure that all participants conduct themselves with respect and professionalism