The FIA is scaling back on their controversial swearing rule by lowering the fine and introducing rules about speech in “controlled” and “uncontrolled” environments.
On Wednesday, the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) updated the controversial swearing ban against drivers and teams. The FIA introduced the ban in January 2025, led by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
The FIA yet to penalise any F1 driver; however, they fined WRC driver Adrien Fourmaux under the swearing rule. Although the FIA did not fine Max Verstappen, they required him to complete community service after the Dutchman swore, before this rule was enacted.
Changes to the swearing rule
The FIA updated Appendix B of the International Sporting Code (ISC) after drivers raised criticism.
Officials lowered the fine for the first offence from €10,000 to €5,000. Stewards can fully suspend a penalty for certain breaches for a first offence by a driver or team.
The updates allow stewards to differentiate speech in a “controlled” or “uncontrolled” environment. The FIA defines a controlled environment as a press conference. Whereas an uncontrolled environment are comments made on track or radio during a session.
Finding a Solution
The FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem noted the feedback about the swearing rule and “led an extensive and collaborative review” to find a solution.
Ben Sulayem said, “As a former rally driver, I know firsthand the range of emotions that are faced during competition. I have led an extensive and collaborative review with contributions from across the seven FIA World Championships, FIA Member Clubs and other motor sports organisations.”
“The improvements the FIA has announced today to Appendix B will ensure we continue to promote the best of sportsmanship in motor sport, while also giving Stewards effective guidelines to act against individuals who may bring the sport into disrepute. The FIA will always be committed to ensuring motor sport is accessible for all our sporting family.”
Garry Connelly, Formula One Stewards Chair and World Motor Sport Council member, thanked Ben Sulayem for collaborating with all parties to find a solution for so that the rule can work for everyone.
Connelly noted, “I would like to thank the FIA President for his leadership with initiating the review of Appendix B. The revised version will ensure that Stewards have effective guidance in place to help them differentiate between on- and off-track issues.”
“I am pleased that stewards will continue to maintain the full discretion to consider any mitigating factors to ensure that a penalty is applied fairly to a specific situation, in particular to take into account the circumstances of the driver concerned.” Connelly continued, “These changes will ensure motor sport can be enjoyed by fans of all ages and will continue all our collective efforts to grow the sport globally.”
Differences between on and off track
Ronan Morgan, President of the Drivers’ Committee, acknowledged how the influential drivers are to younger fans, but the importance of differentiating comments made on track and off.
“Drivers are looked up to as role models by young fans and are rightly seen as ambassadors for the wider world of motor sport,” Morgan said, “How they act really does matter but it is important to recognise that there is a difference between what is said during a race and in a press conference.
“Today’s changes further strengthen the FIA’s International Sporting Code supporting our drivers by understanding the pressures they face during the heat of competition.”
