
Courtesy: F1
According to new FIA rules, Formula 1 drivers may be disqualified from racing or lose championship points if they are found swearing or making political statements. That might exacerbate a schism among the drivers, who chastised the FIA last year after Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc were penalized for swearing in FIA press conferences.
These new regulations, released by the FIA on Wednesday, relate to "misconduct," which they define as both insulting language and physical assault, as well as activities that bring "moral injury or loss" to the organisation and car racing in general. Similar penalties apply to "political, religious, and personal statements that may violate the principle of neutrality promoted by the FIA" that are made without prior written consent.
New guidelines to enhance transparency and consistency
F1 drivers and others in premier competitions such as world rallying, endurance racing, and Formula E face fines four times the regular amount. For international drivers, a first offence is punishable by a £33,800 punishment; a second violation by a £67,600 fine and a one-month ban from competition; and a third offence by a £101,000 fine and one month’s suspension.
According to an FIA spokesperson, the new guidelines are to further enhance the integrity of the game, transparency, and consistency in decision-making. "This new appendix aims to provide clear guidance to stewards regarding the penalties for violations of specific international sporting code articles. By establishing a more structured framework, the FIA seeks to ensure that penalties are applied uniformly and transparently, benefiting both stewards and drivers/competitors," the spokesperson said.
These new guidelines are the latest in a series of moves by the FIA that have been interpreted as attempts to suppress dissent or criticism of President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.