FIA relaxes sanctions on language in F1: drivers hail long-awaited change
Following a major reform of the disciplinary regulations on inappropriate language, the FIA has reduced fines and relaxed penalties. At the May 15, 2025 press conference in Imola, the drivers present reacted positively, judging the adjustments to be fairer and more appropriate to the context.
Since 2024, the discipline surrounding the language used by drivers in public has sparked debates and tensions. Several hefty financial penalties, including those for Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc for inappropriate remarks in press conferences, have caused unease in the paddock. In response to this situation, the FIA has decided to revise its regulations.
The new text, which came into effect on May 14, 2025, reduces fines for a first offense from €10,000 to €5,000, while eliminating automatic suspension in case of recurrence. From now on, commissioners can also decide to fully waive the financial penalty for a first offense. Finally, a clear distinction is made between statements made in a controlled environment (such as a press conference) and those made outside of such control (on the track or during a rally), giving judges more leeway.
Relieved and heard pilots
During today’s press conference in Imola, the drivers present reacted to these changes. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) stated: “I think the fact that there have been changes is a good thing… So I think it’s a good step forward.” He added that the FIA had listened to some feedback from the drivers: “I think they’ve listened to some of our feedback and the changes are going in the right direction.”
Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) supported his comments: “I agree with everything Oscar said,” emphasizing that the latter “summed it up well.”
Franco Colapinto (Alpine) expressed his agreement and relief: “I agree too. I guess it’s good that they listen to them because they’ve been there for a while.” All acknowledged that these adjustments gave the stewards more flexibility to judge on a case-by-case basis.
Towards a Better Consideration of Context and Pressure
These developments reflect the FIA’s desire to reconcile sportsmanship with an understanding of the tensions inherent in motor racing. By clearly distinguishing remarks made in different contexts, the regulation aims to no longer uniformly sanction situations with highly varied contexts.
The drivers recognize that this nuance is essential to preserve freedom of expression while maintaining a certain respect and professionalism in the paddock.
