February 18, (THEWILL) – Formula 1 drivers will be allowed to express their views on political matters during the upcoming season in “exceptional” circumstances, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) announced on Friday.
The decision comes after the FIA was criticised for a rule introduced last December that prevented drivers from making personal, religious and political statements without prior consent. Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, was one of the drivers who criticized the earlier rule, vowing to continue speaking out. Lando Norris accused the FIA of treating the drivers like “schoolchildren.”
Under the new guidelines, drivers are free to express their views on social media and in media activities such as press conferences, but they cannot make political or personal statements during anthem ceremonies, driver parades, or photo sessions.
The FIA said that “exceptional” circumstances would allow drivers to make statements on political matters. However, such requests must be submitted four weeks before the event, and any breaches will be determined on a case-by-case basis with fines, warnings, grid penalties, exclusions, and suspensions all available to the stewards.
The 2023 Formula 1 season kicks off with the Bahrain Grand Prix from March 3-5.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
