In a groundbreaking move for Formula 1, the FIA has agreed to reassess and potentially rewrite its racing guidelines following a heated drivers’ briefing at the Mexico City Grand Prix. The decision comes amid intense criticism from drivers who claim the current rules create dangerous loopholes and allow unfair tactics.
The review was sparked by widespread discontent over McLaren driver Lando Norris’ penalty at last weekend’s U.S. Grand Prix. In Austin, Norris received a controversial penalty after attempting to overtake Max Verstappen at Turn 12—a decision that left McLaren fuming and questioning the very integrity of the racing guidelines. Though McLaren’s appeal was dismissed, the incident brought to light a critical flaw in the rulebook, which many drivers argue allows for excessive leeway on-track.
This is where Verstappen’s tactics came under fire. In his clash with Norris, the Red Bull driver dove aggressively toward the apex of Turn 12, forcing both cars off track while Norris took the penalty alone. According to Alpine’s Pierre Gasly, this approach exploited a “loophole” allowing the leading car undue protection at corners. “Whoever gets to the apex first should have priority,” Gasly argued, echoing the frustration felt across the paddock.
The issue has drawn strong reactions from other high-profile drivers as well, with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton calling the current rules a recipe for chaos. “You shouldn’t be able to come off the brakes, run off the track, and hold your position,” Hamilton stated. Such moves, he contends, allow drivers to “get away” with unfair tactics while opponents bear the consequences.
Adding fuel to the fire, Mercedes’ George Russell voiced the need for “common sense” and called for a standardized approach with permanent F1 stewards who could ensure consistency and fairness across the season. “If we had the same stewards year-round, the drivers would be on the same page,” Russell said, frustrated with the current “letter of the law” approach.
The FIA acknowledged the drivers’ concerns and committed to revisiting the rules, promising revised guidelines for 2025. Following the “lively” briefing, the organization confirmed it would draft updates and seek driver feedback. This consensus marks a significant shift in the FIA’s approach, as drivers like Alex Wurz, Chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, expressed optimism about what he called a “collective push” for better and more consistent racing guidelines.
“We appreciate the stewards’ work, but we see room for improvement,” Wurz said. “We don’t want over-regulation; we want good, fair racing.”
The driver at the center of the controversy, Max Verstappen, pushed back on the criticism, asserting that he simply abides by the rules as they are. “I don’t make the rules—I just follow them,” Verstappen clarified on Thursday, adding that he would adjust his tactics if and when the rules evolve.
This announcement has sent waves through the racing community, with fans and insiders alike anticipating a new era of F1 where skill and sportsmanship—not technicalities—define the track. The upcoming rule revisions could reshape racing culture, setting a new standard of fairness and transparency as the FIA aims to improve the high-octane spectacle that is Formula 1.
