FIA reduces fines for swearing and clarifies sporting sanctions
Faced with criticism from drivers, the FIA revised Appendix B of its International Sporting Code, reducing fines and introducing new distinctions to better reflect the realities of motor sport.
On May 14, 2025, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) announced significant changes to Appendix B of its International Sporting Code (ISC). This revision, led by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, follows critical feedback from drivers regarding the severity of the penalties introduced in January 2025. The adjustments aim to balance the integrity of the sport with the recognition of the pressures inherent in competition.
« As a former rally driver, I know firsthand the range of emotions experienced during competition, said Ben Sulayem. « The improvements announced today to Appendix B will ensure that we continue to promote the best sportsmanship in motorsport, while providing stewards with effective guidelines to act against individuals who might damage the reputation of the sport. »
Main changes to Appendix B
The changes made to Annex B include:
Reduction of fines: the maximum base penalty for offenses has been reduced from €10,000 to €5,000, a decrease of 50%.
Suspension of penalties for first offense: The stewards will now have the option to fully suspend a penalty for certain types of infractions, provided it is the first offense committed by the driver or the team.
Distinction between controlled and uncontrolled environments: the commissioners will be able to differentiate between comments made in controlled environments (such as press conferences) and those in uncontrolled environments (such as radio communications during a race), thereby recognizing the emotional context of spontaneous statements.
Sporting penalties for abuse towards officials: abuse towards officials will now result in sporting penalties, such as grid or time penalties, instead of financial fines.
**Consideration of mitigating circumstances:** the commissioners will continue to take into account mitigating circumstances to ensure fairness in the application of sanctions.
Reactions within the motorsport community
Ronan Morgan, president of the FIA Drivers’ Committee, welcomed these changes: « Drivers are considered role models by young fans and are rightly seen as ambassadors of motorsport. The way they act is important, but it is essential to recognize the difference between what is said during a race and at a press conference. »
Garry Connelly, president of the Formula 1 stewards and member of the World Motor Sport Council, added: « I am pleased that the stewards continue to maintain full discretion to consider all mitigating factors to ensure that a penalty is applied fairly to a specific situation. »
Towards a More Balanced Governance of Motorsport
These adjustments to Appendix B reflect the FIA’s desire to address the concerns of the sport’s stakeholders while maintaining high standards of conduct. By acknowledging the emotional contexts inherent in competitions and adapting penalties accordingly, the FIA aims to promote an environment where the integrity of the sport is preserved without ignoring on-the-ground realities. This balanced approach could serve as a model for other sports organizations facing similar challenges.
