F1 drivers get more freedom of speech as FIA eases swearing penalties after backlash from fans and teams
In a significant policy shift, the FIA has officially reduced the maximum penalties Formula 1 drivers can face for swearing, signalling a step back from its previously harsh stance. The move comes after months of pushback from the racing community, who deemed the earlier rules overly punitive and out of touch with the emotional intensity of high-stakes competition.
FIA quietly changes course on driver swearing penalties after intense criticism from across the paddock
Under the newly amended Appendix B of the International Sporting Code—approved via an e-vote by the World Motor Sport Council—the base maximum fine for a first-time swearing offence has been cut from €10,000 to €5,000. This 50% reduction marks a crucial adjustment to the controversial regulation introduced earlier this year and applies to all FIA-sanctioned championships, including Formula 1 and rallying.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
New Container Houses Vietnam (Prices May Surprise You)
Container House | Search Ads
Search Now
Undo
Importantly, the updated guidelines allow stewards greater discretion. They now have the authority to fully suspend penalties for a first offence, especially when mitigating factors are involved. This introduces a more measured approach to disciplinary actions, aiming to balance sportsmanship with the emotional realities of motorsport.
President
Mohammed Ben Sulayem
, who has faced mounting criticism from competitors, acknowledged the need for reform. 'As a former rally driver, I know firsthand the range of emotions that are faced during competition,' he stated. '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.'
One of the most notable changes is the distinction between 'controlled' and 'uncontrolled' environments. Controlled environments include press conferences and media events, where behaviour is expected to be more composed. In contrast, trackside moments or rally stages—considered uncontrolled—are now judged with greater leniency, recognising the adrenaline and pressure drivers face mid-race.
Last season, drivers like
Max Verstappen
and Charles Leclerc faced stiff penalties for language used during press briefings. Verstappen, in particular, was required to complete a form of F1 community service for his remarks during the Singapore Grand Prix. Such penalties sparked widespread frustration, prompting drivers to appeal for common-sense reform. "Drivers are looked up to as role models by young fans," noted Ronan Morgan, president of the FIA drivers' committee, "but it is important to recognise that there is a difference between what is said during a race and in a press conference."
This policy revision follows a broader trend of the FIA softening positions under public and internal pressure. Earlier this year, Ben Sulayem faced another pushback when his proposal to reintroduce V10 engines was quietly shelved by engine manufacturers, showing a growing demand within the sport for pragmatic leadership.
With these changes, the FIA appears to be recalibrating its relationship with the sport's stars. While penalties for more serious offences, such as public incitement or attacks on FIA officials, still remain steep, this update offers a more forgiving, flexible framework that respects the human side of competitive racing.
Also Read:
Kelly Piquet melts hearts with Mother's Day post celebrating her growing family and journey as a mom
Get
IPL 2025
match
schedules
,
squads
,
points table
, and live scores for
CSK
,
MI
,
RCB
,
KKR
,
SRH
,
LSG
,
DC
,
GT
,
PBKS
, and
RR
. Check the latest
IPL Orange Cap
and
Purple Cap
standings.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
F1, Mission Impossible - The Final Reckoning, Jurassic World Rebirth OTT releases: When and where to watch blockbuster Hollywood films in India
Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning now streaming in India F1: The Movie coming to OTT this week You Might Also Like: F1 The Movie OTT release update: When and where to watch Brad Pitt's blockbuster sports film online Jurassic World Rebirth now available on multiple platforms Hollywood is lighting up Indian screens once again, this time through via digital platforms. Three of the biggest international releases of 2025, Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, F1: The Movie , and Jurassic World Rebirth, are making their way to Indian OTT services, offering fans a front-row seat to action, adrenaline, and adventure. With staggered release dates and flexible rental options, Indian viewers now have multiple ways to enjoy these Hollywood films from the comfort of Cruise returns in Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, the highly anticipated installment of the beloved spy franchise. While the film debuted on digital platforms in the US and New Zealand on August 19, 2025, Indian fans can now catch the action from August 20, 2025, on BookMyShow have two options to access the film: rent it for Rs 119 or buy it for Rs 799. The rental plan offers a 30-day window to start the film, and once playback begins, viewers have 48 hours to finish it. For those who prefer repeat viewings, purchasing the movie offers unlimited the movie is available in four languages, English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, each with accompanying subtitles. This ensures a broader reach across different regions of the its high-octane debut in international theaters and scripting history at the box office, F1: The Movie, starring Brad Pitt, is finally racing its way onto Indian OTT platforms. The film is set to be available for rental on Amazon Prime Video starting August 22, an Apple Original, the movie will also be heading to Apple TV+, though the exact date for its streaming debut on the platform remains under wraps. Current reports suggest a window between late September and early October, but fans will have to wait for an official film, revolves around the world of Formula 1 racing, promises a gripping narrative and breathtaking visuals, making it a must-watch for motorsport enthusiasts and Brad Pitt fansDinosaurs have stomped their way back onto screens in Jurassic World Rebirth, the latest chapter in the iconic franchise. Featuring Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey, the movie is already available for digital rental in can choose between two major platforms for access. On Amazon Prime Video, the rental price is set at Rs 399. Alternatively, BookMyShow Stream is offering the film for the same rental price, while also providing an option to purchase the movie for Rs 999. The film delivers a nostalgic mix of old-school Jurassic thrills with modern-day storytelling,With three major releases now available or soon arriving on OTT platforms, Indian audiences have an exciting lineup of Hollywood content to watch. Whether it's Tom Cruise's death-defying stunts, Brad Pitt behind the wheel, or the roar of dinosaurs returning to life, these films are going to be a treat to watch in the upcoming weeks.
The Wire
4 hours ago
- The Wire
Cricket Makes History at Times Square: First-Ever Match Played in New York City Landmark
New York City [New York] August 21: In a historic first, cricket was played at Times Square, transforming the world's most iconic crossroads into a cricket pitch as part of India Day celebrations led by Cricmax Connect and the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA). The three-day celebration began on August 15, 2025, with a flag hoisting ceremony at the Consulate General of India in New York, where dignitaries and community leaders gathered, and U.S. national players Saiteja Mukkamalla and Jessy Singh were honoured with felicitations. That afternoon, Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda joined representatives from Cricmax Connect and FIA for a ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building in the Indian tricolour. On August 16, 2025, the celebrations culminated at Times Square, where Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda led a spirited flag hoisting ceremony, joined by FIA members and community representatives. Adding to the pride of the occasion, U.S. national players Sai Mukkamalla, Yasir Mohammed, and Smit Patel also participated in the festivities, representing the growing presence of cricket in America. The defining and most unforgettable moment came when, for the very first time, a cricket match was staged at Times Square. In the symbolic opening, Consul General Amb. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan took strike as the first batsman, with Mr. Satnam Singh Sandhu bowling the first ceremonial pitch. What began as a ceremonial gesture quickly turned into a vibrant celebration, as U.S. national players, community leaders, kids and guests all picked up the bat and ball, bringing the energy of cricket to the heart of Manhattan. The crowd at Times Square, filled with Indian Americans, cricket fans, and curious New Yorkers, cheered as players showcased the sport, proving that cricket's spirit transcends borders. For many, witnessing a live cricket game in one of the world's most iconic locations was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 'Cricmax Connect was created to give cricket in the U.S. a true grassroots foundation, a pathway where young talent can dream big and find real opportunities,' said Vinay Bhimjiani, Founder & CEO of Cricmax Connect. 'To see cricket being played for the very first time at Times Square is not just historic, it is symbolic of the sport's rise here. Our vision is to make cricket a part of America's sporting fabric, and this moment proves that the future of the game in the U.S. has never looked brighter.' (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire. This article went live on August twenty-first, two thousand twenty five, at fifty-three minutes past five in the evening.
Business Standard
8 hours ago
- Business Standard
Cricket Makes History at Times Square: First-Ever Match Played in New York City Landmark
India PR Distribution New York City (New York) [US], August 21: In a historic first, cricket was played at Times Square, transforming the world's most iconic crossroads into a cricket pitch as part of India Day celebrations led by Cricmax Connect and the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA). The three-day celebration began on August 15, 2025, with a flag hoisting ceremony at the Consulate General of India in New York, where dignitaries and community leaders gathered, and U.S. national players Saiteja Mukkamalla and Jessy Singh were honoured with felicitations. That afternoon, Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda joined representatives from Cricmax Connect and FIA for a ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building in the Indian tricolour. On August 16, 2025, the celebrations culminated at Times Square, where Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda led a spirited flag hoisting ceremony, joined by FIA members and community representatives. Adding to the pride of the occasion, U.S. national players Sai Mukkamalla, Yasir Mohammed, and Smit Patel also participated in the festivities, representing the growing presence of cricket in America. The defining and most unforgettable moment came when, for the very first time, a cricket match was staged at Times Square. In the symbolic opening, Consul General Amb. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan took strike as the first batsman, with Mr. Satnam Singh Sandhu bowling the first ceremonial pitch. What began as a ceremonial gesture quickly turned into a vibrant celebration, as U.S. national players, community leaders, kids and guests all picked up the bat and ball, bringing the energy of cricket to the heart of Manhattan. The crowd at Times Square, filled with Indian Americans, cricket fans, and curious New Yorkers, cheered as players showcased the sport, proving that cricket's spirit transcends borders. For many, witnessing a live cricket game in one of the world's most iconic locations was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. "Cricmax Connect was created to give cricket in the U.S. a true grassroots foundation, a pathway where young talent can dream big and find real opportunities," said Vinay Bhimjiani, Founder & CEO of Cricmax Connect. "To see cricket being played for the very first time at Times Square is not just historic, it is symbolic of the sport's rise here. Our vision is to make cricket a part of America's sporting fabric, and this moment proves that the future of the game in the U.S. has never looked brighter."
