FIA President Considers Revising Controversial Swearing Rules Amid Backlash
In a shocking turn of events, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is contemplating a possible overhaul of the contentious new guidelines implemented this year to regulate driver behavior. The modifications to ‘Appendix B’ in the International Sporting Code have sparked a wave of criticism, prompting Ben Sulayem to suggest that changes might be on the horizon.
The FIA’s recent update to ‘Appendix B’ introduced strict guidelines to assist stewards in determining penalties for rule violations, including imposing severe sanctions such as hefty fines, race bans, and even deductions of championship points. The response to these measures has been overwhelmingly negative, with fans and competitors alike expressing dissatisfaction, particularly concerning restrictions on a driver’s language.
Ben Sulayem, who assumed the role of FIA president in 2021, hinted at a potential softening of the rules following feedback from drivers across various FIA World Championships. While details on the exact nature of the revisions remain vague, the racing community eagerly anticipates further clarification before the upcoming Miami Grand Prix.
The initial guidelines outlined in ‘Appendix B’ of the International Sporting Code targeted misconduct and actions causing harm to the FIA or its members. These regulations have significant implications for Formula 1 and other series under the FIA’s jurisdiction, as seen in the investigations involving drivers like Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc for their language during press conferences.
Under the revised guidelines, penalties for swearing offenses escalate for repeat infractions, with fines and sporting penalties varying based on the championship level. For instance, F1 drivers could face substantial fines, bans, and even point deductions for multiple violations within a specified timeframe.
While the FIA and Ben Sulayem defended the introduction of ‘Appendix B’ as a means to ensure consistent enforcement of existing rules, the stringent nature of the guidelines has led to widespread discontent. Drivers from various racing disciplines have faced fines and sanctions for breaching the new regulations, sparking debates about the need for reform within the sport.
In response to mounting pressure, Ben Sulayem appears open to revisiting the controversial rules, acknowledging the importance of continuous improvement in shaping the future of motorsport. As the racing world awaits further developments on this front, the potential revisions to ‘Appendix B’ could have far-reaching implications for the sport and its participants.