Following driver backlash, FIA ponders potential rule modifications
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FIA Contemplates Overhauling Penalty System - Drivers' Feedback Triggers Revision
Listen up, racing fanatics! It seems the FIA is ready to shake things up with a potential revamp of their penalty system, prompted by driver feedback. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem hopped on social media to share his thoughts, stating, "As a rally driver turned boss, I got your back better than most."
Driver's Hawk-Eye View
The revised penalty system, introduced earlier this year, has rubbed some drivers the wrong way. It even imposes fines for swearing, claimed to cause "moral mayhem." The reigning Formula 1 champ, Max Verstappen, clamped his lips during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, remarking, "Negative Nancy's be gone!" According to the rulebook, fines could reach an eye-watering €120,000 and race bans for repeat offenders.
Sunlight on Swindles
The drivers didn't just question the rules; they've been questioning their origin too. The FIA defends the rulebook as a crucial component of their sporting code, but Ben Sulayem recently hinted at tweaks, saying, "People write the rules, and people can change the rules."
[Enrichment Data:]- Transparency Demanded: Criticism has been raised against the lack of transparency around how fines are being used by the FIA.- Racing Guidelines Updates: Updates to overtaking rules for the 2025 season emphasize fairness and clarity, with adjustments made to the apex positioning requirement and exit flexibility.- Penalty Point System: The driver penalty point system caps penalties at 12 per 12-month period, with Verstappen reaching 8 points. Recent additions to the system include stricter penalties for collisions.- Censorship and Transparency Reforms: FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is considering "improvements" to the rules on swearing, with fines previously reaching up to €40,000. Drivers have advocated for broadcasters to filter language.
The FIA is showing a willingness to address driver concerns while upholding their regulatory authority, balancing fair competition with post-race accountability.
- The FIA's revised penalty system, which has drawn criticism from drivers, includes fines for swearing, leading to accusations of moral mayhem.
- Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 champion, chose to remain silent during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in response to the strict penalties for swearing.
- In a constructive sports-analysis perspective, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, a former rally driver, has hinted at possible changes in the rulebook, arguing that people can change the rules.
- As the FIA contemplates revisions to their penalty system, transparency is a key demand as drivers question the origin and use of fines, particularly in the case of swearing, with improvements being considered.
