FIA President open to revisions to swearing and conduct rules

Following months of controversy and criticism, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has signaled a willingness to reconsider the governing body’s stringent regulations on swearing and competitor behavior in the sport.

The move comes in response to constructive feedback from drivers across various FIA championships, prompting a review of the newly introduced Appendix B in the International Sporting Code (ISC).

The ISC serves as the foundational framework for motorsport, with category-specific regulations built upon it. This year, the FIA introduced Appendix B, a matrix of suggested penalties for misconduct-related ISC Articles, including swearing.

The FIA defended the addition, stating it aimed to promote social accountability and ensure consistency in punishments.

However, the initiative was met with widespread criticism from competitors, pundits, media, and fans, who viewed it as a blunt overreach by the governing body.

The backlash intensified due to inconsistent enforcement and unintended consequences.

For instance, Max Verstappen refrained from discussing a critical aspect of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, citing fears of penalties that could range from fines to a potential lengthy ban.

Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz faced a hefty fine for missing the national anthem ceremony in Japan due to medical treatment, while other instances of vulgar language in official sessions went unpunished.

These discrepancies fueled further discontent among stakeholders.

Ben Sulayem Responds to Driver Feedback

In social media post published late on Tuesday, Ben Sulayem acknowledged the concerns and expressed openness to revising the controversial rules.

“Following constructive feedback received from many drivers competing in the seven FIA championships, I am considering making improvements to Appendix B,” he wrote.

Drawing on his own experience, he added:

“As a former rally driver, I better understand what the drivers have told me.

“Appendix B is a key part of the International Sporting Code and is central to helping us ensure that our sport is accessible to all families.

“Humans make the rules and humans can improve them.”

• Read also: Malcolm Wilson nominated as new FIA Deputy President for Sport

Ben Sulayem underscored his commitment to progress, concluding:

“This principle of continuous improvement is something I have always believed in and it is the beating heart of what we do at the FIA.”

While no specific timeline or details for the proposed changes have been announced, Ben Sulayem’s comments mark a significant shift in tone, suggesting a willingness to address the concerns of drivers and restore balance to the FIA’s regulatory approach.

The motorsport community now awaits further developments, hopeful for a resolution that aligns with the sport’s competitive spirit and diverse audience.

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