In recent years, especially since the middle of last season, one section of the F1 Sporting Code that has sparked much discussion is the one concerning penalties for improper behavior by drivers off the track. Just a few minutes ago, the FIA announced significant changes to the penalties that will be applied: below are all the new rules already in force starting from Imola.
Since the 2024 Singapore GP, many drivers have been hit with heavy penalties for using foul language during press conferences. The first to pay the price was world champion Max Verstappen, who was ordered to carry out community service in Rwanda. And it wasn’t just in F1—WRC driver Sébastien Ogier was also sanctioned for the exact same reason.
What sparked widespread anger—especially among drivers—was the tightening of penalties before the start of this season. Under the FIA’s scrutiny were not only swear words spoken in press conferences but also those used over team radio. This led the GPDA, the drivers’ association, to take a strong stance against President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
But just a few minutes ago, after only six Grands Prix, the FIA has stepped back. The Federation has published the new rules for all FIA championships. The updates affect Appendix B of the International Sporting Code, strengthen protections for race officials, introduce greater flexibility, and significantly reduce penalties.
New guidelines for stewards:
The new regulations will allow stewards to recognize the difference, and thus impose different penalties, between comments made in “controlled” environments and those in “uncontrolled” ones. The first group includes, for example, statements made in press conferences and interviews given by drivers. The second group includes communications by drivers or teams while on track (e.g., team radio).
New penalties:
The new rules bring a reduction in penalties of more than 50%. The maximum fine that can be imposed on a driver drops from $10,000 to $5,000.
New protections for race officials:
Abuse towards race officials will now result in sporting penalties rather than simple fines, aligning motorsport with other major sports organizations.
“As a former rally driver, I know firsthand all the emotions one experiences during a competition,” said FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. “That’s why I led a thorough and collaborative review of Appendix B of the Sporting Code, with input from all seven FIA championships.”
“I thank the president for this initiative. This new version will ensure stewards have effective guidelines to distinguish what happens on and off the track,” concluded Garry Connelly, president of the stewards.
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