The FIA president explained that drivers have decided not to make “political statements” without the governing body’s permission.
The FIA International Sporting Code, which sets the rules for all classes of motorsport, has been revised for this year to stop drivers and other competitors from making unauthorized statements.
It also banned further “political, religious and personal statements or opinions” on the ISC, unless previously approved in writing by the FIA for International Competitions, particularly in violation of the principle of neutrality promoted by the FIA under its rules. or by the relevant ASN for national competitions within their jurisdiction.
Competitors will also “fail to comply with FIA regulations regarding the appointment and participation of persons in any competition that counts towards the FIA Championship” which is now considered a violation of the rules.
In recent years, several Formula 1 drivers have used their helmet designs or clothing choices in the paddock to show their support for various causes. The new restrictions have caused some criticism.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulaiman also explained the change. “We are concerned about building bridges. You can use sport for peace,” he told reporters. But one thing we don’t want is to have the FIA as a platform for personal agendas.
“We change from the sport. What makes the driver better? Driving. They are very good at it, and they do the business, they make the show, they are the stars. Nobody can stop them.
“There are other platforms to express what you want. Everyone has that and they are very welcome to go through the FIA process and go through that.
“I have my own personal things, OK, but it doesn’t mean I use the FIA to do it,” added Ben Sulaym.
The clause in the ISC does not completely prohibit political expressions, they were first confirmed by the FIA.
“If anything, they took away his permission,” Ben Sulaym said. “If not, if you make another mistake, it’s like speeding down the pit lane. It’s pretty clear what you’ll get if you do that.”
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