Breaking news: FIA back down on controversial rule after….. read more
FIA back down on controversial rule after….. read more
The FIA, under the leadership of president Mohammed ben Sulayem, has recently revised its controversial rules concerning driver conduct, following significant backlash from several prominent drivers. This decision comes after months of heated disputes surrounding the enforcement of penalties for inappropriate language, particularly during press conferences and other regulated environments.
One notable incident that fueled this controversy was when Max Verstappen received a penalty akin to community service for using profanity while addressing the media back in October. Both Verstappen and George Russell, the chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), have expressed their discontent regarding the stringent application of these rules. The situation escalated to the point where ben Sulayem hinted that, starting with the 2025 season, the broadcasting of team radio communications might be restricted if drivers could not refrain from swearing.
In a recent announcement, the FIA confirmed that it has reconsidered its stance on the matter, leading to modifications in Appendix B of the sporting regulations. Crucially, the maximum fine for violations has been reduced from €10,000 to €5,000. Furthermore, the FIA clarified that leniency would be exercised regarding the language used ‘on-track,’ as opposed to within controlled environments like press conferences.
In an official statement, ben Sulayem remarked, “As a former rally driver, I am well aware of the intense emotions experienced during competition. I have conducted a thorough and collaborative review, engaging input from various stakeholders across the seven FIA world championships, member clubs, and other motorsport organizations. The amendments to Appendix B aim to uphold sportsmanship in motorsport while providing stewards with clear guidelines to address behaviors that may tarnish the sport’s reputation. The FIA remains dedicated to making motorsport inclusive for everyone involved in our sporting community.”
The issue of inappropriate language is not limited to Verstappen. Charles Leclerc also faced financial penalties for swearing during a press conference at the conclusion of the 2024 season. Additionally, World Rally Championship (WRC) competitor Adrien Fourmaux incurred a significant fine of €10,000 along with a suspended €20,000 penalty for using ‘inappropriate language’ during a television interview earlier in 2025. This incident further ignited tensions between WRC drivers and the FIA, highlighting the widespread discontent with the enforcement of the language policy.
The newly revised regulations in Appendix B are set to take effect immediately, though the GPDA has yet to respond publicly to this change. Ronan Morgan, who serves as president of the drivers’ committee at the FIA, emphasized the importance of drivers serving as role models for younger fans. He stated that their behavior is scrutinized and that they are viewed as ambassadors for the broader motorsport community. However, he also acknowledged the distinction between the language used during the heat of competition and that which is expressed in more controlled settings.
The FIA’s recent changes are seen as a significant step towards alleviating the pressure on drivers while still promoting a sense of responsibility in their conduct. By recognizing the emotional intensity of racing, the FIA aims to foster a more supportive environment for drivers, allowing them to express themselves without the fear of excessive penalties.
This revision not only reflects the FIA’s commitment to adapting its regulations in response to the feedback from drivers but also illustrates a broader understanding of the challenges faced by athletes in high-pressure situations. The intent behind the changes is to strike a balance between maintaining a level of decorum in motorsport and acknowledging the realities of competition, where emotions can run high.
As the FIA implements these changes, it remains to be seen how they will affect driver behavior and the overall atmosphere within the sport. The outcome hinges on whether these adjustments will satisfy the concerns of drivers like Verstappen and Russell and whether they will lead to a more relaxed and authentic communication style in the world of motorsport. The ongoing dialogue between the FIA and the drivers is crucial as they navigate the complexities of maintaining sportsmanship while also allowing for genuine expressions of emotion during competition.
