FIA announces significant changes to controversial driver misconduct regulations
Driver misconduct.
Last winter, the FIA introduced a controversial 'Appendix B,' instituting new penalties for driver misconduct, including swearing. With penalties accelerating based on the number of violations and the series involved — with the most significant financial penalties reserved for F1 drivers — and potential suspensions and sporting penalties on the table, many wondered if Appendix B would impact the future of motorsport.
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However, the FIA is taking a step back.
The governing body unveiled a series of changes to Appendix B on Wednesday, changes that not only reduce the maximum financial penalties but also give race officials the option to suspend penalties fully for certain breaches.
In a statement released by the FIA, the motorsport governing body outlined that the 'base maximum penalty has been reduced generally from €10,000 to €5,000. This is a reduction of 50%. However, for FIA World Championships, where multipliers were involved, the reductions will be even more significant.'
Race stewards not only can fully suspend penalties for a driver's first infraction, but can 'differentiate between controlled and non-controlled environments.' While driver conduct will be governed in 'controlled' environments such as press conferences, comments made in the heat of the moment — such as on the track or during a rally stage — will fall under the 'non-controlled' category.
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The FIA also stated that '[m]itigating circumstances will continue to be considered' under the revised Appendix B.
You can read the fully revised Appendix B here.
'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,' said FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
'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.'
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