New rules know no brother or sister: FIA can punish drivers for political statements.

Stricter Penalties for F1 Drivers Over Profanity and Political Statements

Formula 1 drivers will face tougher sanctions in the upcoming World Championship season for the use of inappropriate language, gestures, or political statements, following new regulations introduced by the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

Under the updated rules, drivers could receive substantial fines, point deductions, or even suspensions for using vulgar language or making remarks deemed offensive. The FIA’s stance on profanity first became a point of controversy late last season when Charles Leclerc was fined €5,000 for swearing during a press conference while discussing a driving mistake. A few months earlier, reigning world champion Max Verstappen had been handed community service for a similar offense.

Now, the FIA has explicitly outlined punishable infractions, which include “the use of language, gestures, or signs that are offensive, vulgar, reckless, or could be perceived as degrading or inappropriate.” Additionally, physical altercations will be penalized, and strict measures will be enforced against political or religious statements that contradict the FIA’s neutrality principle.

Harsh Fines and Suspensions Across FIA Championships

The new penalties will apply to all FIA-sanctioned racing series, with progressively increasing fines and suspensions for repeat offenses. A first violation will result in a fine ranging from €10,000 to €15,000. A second offense will double the penalty, while a third and any subsequent violations within a two-year period will lead to fines between €30,000 and €45,000.

For Formula 1 specifically, these amounts will be quadrupled, meaning drivers could face fines ranging from €40,000 to €180,000.

Suspensions will also come into play for repeat offenders. From the second offense onward, drivers will face a one-month suspension, while a third violation will also lead to point deductions in the championship standings.

These new regulations mark a significant tightening of FIA policies, sparking debates over the balance between professional conduct and free expression in the world of motorsport.