BREAKING: FIA issue new health guidelines for F1 star’s… Read more
FIA issue new health guidelines for F1 stars
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has, for the first time, released a complete set of health guidelines for drivers competing in its sanctioned racing series, including Formula 1. The newly published guidelines are freely accessible to the public, aiming to provide valuable resources for both professional drivers and those at the grassroots level starting their motorsport careers.
Developed in collaboration with leading medical professionals, these guidelines offer detailed advice on managing and treating a variety of health conditions. Drivers and teams across the sport have widely welcomed the initiative, which covers physical health, mental wellbeing, and recovery processes. Notably, the guidelines dedicate a specific section to mental health, with particular emphasis on managing exposure to trauma.
FIA Medical Commission President Dr. Sean Petherbridge hailed the publication as a major step forward in supporting the health and welfare of drivers. “The FIA Medical Guidelines represent a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to prioritise driver wellbeing,” he said. “By offering clear, evidence-based recommendations, we are giving drivers and medical professionals the tools to make informed decisions that promote safe participation in motorsport. The Commission will continue to work closely with drivers, teams, and National Sporting Authorities to ensure these guidelines evolve alongside the latest medical research and the changing demands of the sport.”
Strengthening the FIA’s Safety Commitment
The launch of the guidelines is accompanied by a new educational programme aimed at raising awareness of concussion risks within motorsport. This initiative underscores the FIA’s long-standing commitment to safety and focuses on recognising, treating, and managing concussion—a mild but potentially serious brain injury that can occur both on and off the track.
The programme, officially unveiled by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, outlines the common symptoms of concussion, offers advice on initial treatment, and provides structured guidance on how drivers can safely return to competition following such an injury. The educational material is designed to be accessible to all participants in the sport, from elite-level competitors to amateurs, ensuring a consistent understanding of the dangers associated with head trauma.
Speaking on the importance of the project, Ben Sulayem shared his personal experience with concussion outside of racing. “I have experienced concussion first-hand, away from the race track,” he revealed. “I know what it feels like, I’ve faced the symptoms, and I’ve dealt with the aftermath. This is why I understand how critical it is to address this issue. Thanks to the expertise of the FIA Medical and Safety team, we are offering an educational and approachable way to identify and tackle concussion in our sport. Our goal is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all current and future competitors.”
By making these guidelines publicly available and coupling them with targeted educational initiatives, the FIA is setting a new benchmark for health and safety in motorsport. This approach not only enhances the physical protection of drivers but also places equal importance on mental health and long-term wellbeing, aligning with the evolving understanding of athlete care in high-intensity sports.
With these measures, the FIA continues to reinforce its position as a proactive guardian of safety in global motorsport, ensuring drivers at every level have access to the knowledge and resources needed to compete both safely and sustainably.
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