FIA announce new F1 penalty rules ahead of.....read more

FIA announce new F1 penalty rules ahead of…..read more

The FIA has officially introduced a new regulation regarding the use of profanity by drivers, with the announcement made ahead of the 2025 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola. The decision comes as part of a broader initiative by the organization’s president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, to enforce stricter language standards across all FIA-sanctioned motorsport series.

In recent months, the issue of inappropriate language—particularly swearing—has become a hot topic, not just in Formula 1 but also in other FIA-governed competitions. The governing body had already started taking action on this matter late last year, following several high-profile incidents. One of the most notable cases involved reigning world champion Max Verstappen, who received a unique penalty in the form of a community service-style sanction for using foul language during a press conference in October 2024. The penalty sparked debate across the paddock and the wider motorsport community.

Verstappen and fellow F1 driver George Russell, who also serves as the chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), were among the most outspoken critics of the policy. Both questioned the practicality of enforcing language restrictions in high-stress, adrenaline-filled environments like Formula 1. Russell, in particular, emphasized that drivers often react emotionally in the heat of the moment and that penalizing such behavior might be excessive.

Despite the pushback, Ben Sulayem remained committed to the crackdown. Ahead of the current season, he went as far as to suggest that team radio broadcasts, a popular feature among fans, could be restricted or censored if drivers failed to moderate their language. This potential move was met with concern, as the live team radio feed is considered one of the most engaging elements of F1 broadcasts, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the world of racing.

The newly announced penalty framework now formalizes the consequences for inappropriate language. Under the updated rules, drivers who swear in official settings—such as press conferences, podium interviews, or over the team radio during live broadcasts—could face a range of penalties. These might include warnings, fines, or non-sporting punishments like community service. The FIA emphasized that the goal is not to limit freedom of expression but to maintain a level of professionalism and respect, particularly in global broadcasts where diverse audiences, including younger viewers, are present.

The regulation aims to set a clearer standard and reduce ambiguity about what constitutes unacceptable behavior. As the Imola race weekend approaches, all eyes will be on how the new rules are enforced and whether drivers will adjust their conduct in response. The initiative marks a new chapter in the FIA’s broader effort to shape the image and culture of motorsport at the highest level.