The FIA has offered clarification over its controversial ban on political, personal and religious statements from competitors.
Across the last several years, a number of drivers have used their F1 platform to spread awareness on certain matters, including diversity and climate change.
A new section of the FIA’s International Sporting Code (ISC) was added last year, and outlined that unapproved statements would be prohibited going forward.
Many drivers have criticised the FIA injunction, while others stated that they wished for clarity from the governing body before making assumptions.
On Friday the FIA announced that it was “fundamental” that motorsport remains “neutral and separate from political, religious or personal interference”.
It added that motorsport “should not be used as a platform for individual advocacy”, and stated that its new rule aims to prevent participants from taking up a public opinion on a matter they would rather stay silent on.
Despite that, the FIA has asserted that drivers can continue to express their opinions “outside of the scope of the International Competitions”.
Situations where the FIA has asserted that drivers are permitted to make political and personal statements are;
- through their social media; or
- during interviews with accredited media (such as any TV or print media interviews,
- during the FIA press conference, only in response to direct questions from accredited journalists.
Situations where the FIA has asserted that drivers are NOT permitted to make political and personal statements are;
- FIA press conferences (except in response to direct questions from accredited journalists);
- activities on the track (Course) area or equivalent (e.g., during the Drivers Parade and the national anthem); or
- pre-race / post-race procedures or equivalent (e.g., the podium ceremony, in the cool down room, or at the start- and end-of-season group photos).
Participants can seek approval from the FIA to make a statement, however they must file a written request at least four weeks before the event concerned. Late requests will be considered on an exceptional basis.
The FIA outlined that the Stewards would determine if a statement or comment is in breach of Article 12.2.1.n of the ISC.
These breaches could be in the form of an image, symbol, gesture, words or actions.
If a driver doesn’t comply with Article 12.2.1.n, the stewards may impose any of the penalties listed under Article 12.4.1 of the ISC.
These penalties cover every form of punishment that can be applied to drivers throughout a race weekend, ranging from minor penalties such as a warning or reprimand to extreme sentences like expulsion.
