Russell also denounces the FIA rule limiting the freedom of expression of drivers

Since the FIA updated its International Sporting Code, adding a rule that prohibits drivers from making any political statements without prior authorization, hostile reactions have been multiplying. George Russell, a driver for Mercedes and a member of the drivers’ association, expressed his discontent on the sidelines of the W14 presentation.

“I’m not really sure why the FIA has taken such a position,” he said. “It’s totally unnecessary in sports and in the world we’re living in right now. I would like to think it’s some kind of misunderstanding, but I’m not so sure.”

Nevertheless, he hopes that this rule will be revised before the first Grand Prix of the season, which will take place in Bahrain on March 5th. « I hope and have confidence that this will be resolved before the first race. I cannot imagine that they want to prevent us from expressing our opinions, as it is part of freedom of speech and we have the right to share our opinions on any platform we choose. Therefore, I do not think this will be a problem for the future. »

Lando Norris ready to break the rule.

The British driver, Lando Norris, had already expressed his opinion on the matter and added this week that he would be ready to break the rules depending on the penalty. “I don’t know what the penalty will be. If it’s a fine, I would probably be happy to break it,” he said at the launch of the McLaren MCL60.

If it’s a little more, maybe not, but it depends. At certain times, there are things that you will want to say and that they may not allow, but I think it will only be positive, whatever the circumstances. I think it is very important for it to be clear that as drivers, we can always express our opinions, and I don’t think Formula 1 should go in the direction of limiting what we can do, say, and influence. […] I have the feeling that there has been a lot of pressure [on the FIA] and that enough has been said for us to change course.