FIA clarifies Formula 1 freedom of speech regulations ahead of 2023 season after new rules questioned by drivers
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Published 17/02/2023 at 20:08 GMT
After a backlash from several drivers, the FIA has clarified its freedom of speech regulations for the 2023 Formula 1 season. The sport’s governing body has revealed “personal, religious and political statements” will be allowed in “exceptional” circumstances but there will be restrictions in some activities such as during anthem ceremonies or on the driver parade.
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The FIA has revealed Formula 1 drivers will be allowed to make political statements in “exceptional” circumstances.
In December, the FIA revealed that "personal, religious and political statements" cannot be made, unless written consent has been given.
Since then, most drivers have questioned why the regulation was put in place, with Lewis Hamilton stating he will continue to speak out whilst Lando Norris accused the governing body of treating the drivers like “schoolchildren”.
A document published on Friday, titled Guidance on the Principle of Neutrality (Article 12.2.1.n of the ISC) said the drivers are able to “express their views on any political, religious or personal matter before, during and after the International Competition, in their own space, and outside the scope of the International Competition”.
This means they are free to say what they want on social media and any media activities including press conferences.
However, the new guidelines go on to say "participants are not permitted to make political, religious and/or personal statements in violation of the general principle of neutrality during [the] FIA press conferences (except in response to direct questions from accredited journalists).”
Therefore, the drivers cannot make personal, religious or political statements during the anthem ceremonies, driver parade or in photograph sessions.
On clarification of what is determined as one of the aforementioned statements, the FIA has said: “The general making and display of political, religious and personal statements or comments notably in violation of the general principle of neutrality promoted by the FIA under its Statutes, unless previously approved in writing by the FIA for International Competitions, or by the relevant ASN for National Competitions within their jurisdiction.”
In "exceptional" circumstances the FIA "may authorise a participant to make a statement at an international competition that would otherwise be prohibited" as long as the request has been made four weeks prior to the event.
Any breaches would be determined on a case-by-case basis with fines, warnings, grid penalties, exclusions and suspensions all available to the stewards.
The 2023 Formula 1 season begins with the Bahrain Grand Prix from March 3-5.
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