BREAKING NEWS: Drivers demand meeting with FIA president over ‘alarming and unacceptable’ ban that Lewis Hamilton branded a ‘joke’…read more
The motorsport community is abuzz with controversy surrounding the FIA’s recent ban on swearing, with drivers from both Formula 1 and the World Rally Championship (WRC) speaking out against the rule. The ban, which was introduced at the start of the 2025 season, has already resulted in hefty fines for several drivers, including rally star Adrien Fourmaux, who was fined €30,000 (£24,000) for using the F-word during an interview.
The World Rally Drivers Association (WoRDA) has released a statement condemning the ban, citing the severity of the penalties and the lack of transparency surrounding the rule. The statement, which was signed by several top WRC drivers, argues that the ban is unfair and unrealistic, particularly for non-native English speakers who may not be aware of the nuances of certain words.
The WoRDA statement identifies three key points of contention with the ban. Firstly, they argue that common colloquialisms should not be treated as equal to genuine insults or acts of aggression. Secondly, they point out that non-native English speakers may use words without realizing their meaning or connotation. Finally, they argue that it is unrealistic to expect drivers to have perfect control over their emotions in the heat of the moment, particularly after an adrenaline-fueled event.
The WoRDA statement also criticizes the severity of the fines, which they argue are disproportionate to the average income and budget of rally drivers. They also question the lack of transparency surrounding the fines, asking where the money goes and why it is not being reinvested in the sport.
Formula 1 drivers have also weighed in on the controversy, with several speaking out against the ban at the recent F1 75 car launch in London. Max Verstappen, who was fined £33,000 and ordered to perform public service for swearing during an official FIA press conference last season, attempted to sidestep the issue, while Lewis Hamilton called the rule a “joke.”
The FIA has responded to the WoRDA statement, arguing that the ban is necessary to promote sportsmanship and respect in the sport. They also claim that the fines are in line with those imposed by other international governing bodies and leagues. However, the FIA’s response has done little to quell the controversy, with many drivers and fans continuing to speak out against the ban.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the FIA’s swearing ban has sparked a heated conversation about the role of sports governance and the limits of free speech in motorsport. Whether the ban will be revised or repealed remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the motorsport community will continue to push back against what they see as an unfair and unrealistic rule.
