The dispute that has involved drivers and the FIA over the past several months — particularly centering on the President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem — may soon be heading toward resolution.
Drivers vs. FIA: in recent months, tensions between the drivers and the governing body of the F1 World Championship have not shown signs of cooling. The root of the discontent lies in the infamous “Appendix B” of the Sporting Regulations.
This part of the Sporting Code outlines severe fines and penalties for drivers who insult, use vulgar language, or show disrespect toward the Federation.
Appendix B of the Sporting Regulations details the amounts associated with possible penalties. For instance, violating article 12.2.1.f of the International Sporting Code may result not only in a fine but also — if repeated — in a deduction of points from the World Championship standings.
Over time, several drivers have voiced their discontent with the controversial Appendix B, which relies heavily on the discretion of the stewards.
However, the situation may soon evolve. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has spoken of a possible revision to Appendix B of the regulations.
In a statement posted to his Instagram account, the 63-year-old from Dubai explained: “Given the many constructive feedbacks received from drivers across all our seven FIA world championships, I am considering modifying Appendix B.”
“As a former rally driver, I understand the needs of drivers better than many others,” he added. “Appendix B is an important part of the International Sporting Code. It helps keep the sport accessible to everyone.”
“Humans write the rules, and humans can improve them,” Mohammed Ben Sulayem wrote on his account. “This principle of continuous improvement is something I’ve always believed in and is at the heart of everything we do at the FIA.”
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