FIA President Considers Reversing Ban on Drivers Swearing
In a recent development, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has indicated that the governing body may reconsider its ban on drivers swearing during Formula 1 races. The ban, which was introduced in the winter, has been met with resistance from drivers and the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA). According to a report by the BBC, Ben Sulayem has stated that he is “considering making improvements” to the rules in question “following constructive feedback from drivers across our seven FIA world championships”.
The ban, which was codified in the FIA statutes, imposed a series of penalties on drivers who either swear or criticise the FIA. However, Ben Sulayem’s intervention has raised hopes that the rules may be relaxed. Mercedes driver George Russell, a director of the GPDA, has refused to comment on Ben Sulayem’s statement. Instead, he emphasised that “words don’t mean anything until the change has been made”. Speaking to the BBC, Russell said, “It’s being considered. The words don’t mean anything until the change has been made.”
Russell also revealed that there had been no further dialogue with the FIA on the matter since the drivers wrote an open letter in November asking the governing body to treat them like “adults”. The open letter was a response to the ban, which many drivers felt was too restrictive. According to Russell, “Collectively, we’ve not spoken any further since the open letter that was sent out. Whether that is the response I’m not too sure.”
The GPDA has been vocal in its criticism of the ban, arguing that it is too harsh and does not take into account the pressures and emotions of racing. Russell added that it would be great if changes were made and the drivers were at least heard. He said, “It would be great if changes were made and the drivers were at least heard and it’s in the best interests of the sport, and ensuring some common sense is applied to it. We can comment on it when we see the action rather than the consideration.”
The BBC understands that the FIA is taking the feedback from drivers seriously and is considering making changes to the rules. However, no timeline has been given for when a decision will be made. The FIA’s stance on the ban has been seen as a significant departure from its previous approach, which was seen as more relaxed.
The debate over the ban has highlighted the tensions between the FIA and the drivers, who feel that the governing body is too restrictive and does not trust them to behave professionally. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether the FIA will relax its stance on swearing and criticism. One thing is certain, however: the drivers will be watching closely to see if the governing body follows through on its promise to reconsider the ban. As Russell said, “We can comment on it when we see the action rather than the consideration.” The BBC will continue to provide updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.
The FIA’s potential U-turn on the ban has been welcomed by drivers and fans alike, who see it as a positive step towards creating a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere in Formula 1. According to the BBC’s source, Ben Sulayem’s statement is a clear indication that the FIA is listening to the drivers and is willing to make changes to the rules. The BBC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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