FIA Eases up on Swearing Penalties: A Win for F1 Drivers
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has made significant changes to its rules on misconduct violations, including swearing, in response to backlash from Formula 1 and World Rally drivers. The updated rules, which were introduced in January as part of the International Sporting Code for 2025, had been criticized for being too harsh, with drivers facing increased fines, suspensions, and championship points deductions for repeat offenses.
After receiving “constructive feedback” from drivers, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem announced that the organization would be revising the rules to better reflect the realities of competition. The revised rules, which were published on Wednesday, reduce the maximum base penalty for driver misconduct from €10,000 to €5,000 and give stewards the option to fully suspend a penalty for certain types of breaches, provided it is a first offense by the driver or team ¹.
One of the most significant changes is the distinction between controlled and non-controlled environments. Drivers are now unlikely to be punished for swearing while competing, but will still face action for using offensive language in press conferences. This change acknowledges that drivers may use strong language in the heat of the moment, but still expects them to conduct themselves professionally in formal settings ¹.
The FIA has also reduced the base penalty for more severe misconduct offenses from €40,000 to €20,000. Additionally, the abuse of officials will now be punished with sporting penalties, such as grid penalties, rather than fines. This change brings the FIA in line with other major global sports organizations ¹.
The revised rules are a response to concerns from drivers that the original rules were too harsh and could have a chilling effect on their ability to express themselves freely. The FIA has sought to strike a balance between promoting sportsmanship and acknowledging the intense emotions that come with competition.
However, the changes come as Ben Sulayem is facing criticism for his leadership of the FIA. There have been reports that he is proposing changes to the organization’s statutes that would give him more control over the governing body. This has led to concerns about the direction of the FIA and the potential for Ben Sulayem to consolidate power ¹.
Former World Rally champion Carlos Sainz has announced his intention to run for the FIA presidency, which could potentially challenge Ben Sulayem’s leadership. The FIA has been approached for comment on the proposed changes to the statutes, but has yet to respond ¹.
Overall, the revised rules on misconduct violations are a positive step towards promoting sportsmanship while also acknowledging the realities of competition. However, the controversy surrounding Ben Sulayem’s leadership and the proposed changes to the FIA’s statutes will likely continue to be a major issue in the world of motorsport.
