The protests by drivers in recent weeks are having an effect: The International Automobile Federation (FIA) has backed down in the dispute over the choice of words and swearing by racing drivers
As expected, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) has responded to the ongoing driver protests of recent weeks and adjusted its language rules. FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem had already announced this after pressure on him and the world governing body had increased.
Now, following a vote in the World Council, the FIA has confirmed “major improvements” to its rules. The key change is that the basic penalty for each offense has been reduced from €10,000 to €5,000. This is particularly relevant for participants in a world championship, as the rules there provide for so-called multipliers.
In addition, the stewards now have the option of suspending a fine on probation, depending on the nature of the offense and whether it is the first offense by a driver or team.
New: It depends on the situation
The stewards can now assess two different scenarios: on the one hand, so-called “controlled situations” such as press conferences, and on the other hand, “uncontrolled situations” such as spontaneous statements made, for example, in radio messages from the car.
Ronan Morgan, President of the FIA Drivers’ Council, explains: “Drivers are role models for young fans and ambassadors for motorsport, so their behavior is very important.”
“However, it is important to recognize that there is a difference between a statement made during a race and one made at a press conference. The changes promote understanding of the pressure drivers are under in the heat of the moment.”
Strict crackdown on racism and discrimination
However, the world governing body emphasizes: “If officials are verbally abused or insulted, there will no longer be fines, but sporting penalties. This is in line with other global sports. Racist and discriminatory comments will also continue to be severely punished in the future.”
All this is the result of a “comprehensive review initiated by FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem,” the world governing body writes in a press release—without addressing the backlash that the “language rules” originally published in January 2025 have received since then.
What FIA President bin Sulayem has to say
On the contrary, Bin Sulayem presents himself as a benefactor and the changes that have now been made as a matter of course when he says: “As a former rally driver, I know from my own experience the wide range of emotions that are experienced in competition.”
“I have led a comprehensive and collaborative review involving representatives from all seven FIA World Championships, FIA member clubs, and other motorsport organizations.”
“The improvements announced today will ensure that we continue to promote the best values of fair play in motorsport, while providing clear guidelines for stewards to take action against individuals who may harm the sport.”
Praise for the new FIA regulations
Garry Connelly, chairman of the Formula 1 Stewards, welcomes these changes and is pleased to see “clear guidelines to distinguish between incidents on and off the track” and “full discretion” for the rule makers. He believes that stewards can now “fairly adapt a penalty to the situation at hand.”
