F1: Swearing Risks Points Deduction and Fines Under New FIA Rules

The FIA has introduced stricter penalties for Formula 1 drivers, including fines and championship points deductions, for swearing and other sporting code violations. This change builds on FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem's push to reduce profanity among drivers. The updated sporting code, released Wednesday, outlines how misconduct under Article 12 will be penalised.

A major change is the introduction of a tiered fine system. In Formula 1, fines are multiplied by four, making penalties far higher than in lower-tier motorsports. For instance, a first offence for causing “moral injury or loss to the FIA” now carries a €40,000 fine. Repeat offences result in even steeper fines, suspensions, and championship points deductions. This system is linked to the same misconduct rules that led to Max Verstappen’s controversial penalty for swearing during the Singapore Grand Prix, which drew criticism from drivers and fans alike.

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The updated rules give FIA stewards significant discretion to decide penalties. They can account for factors like context and severity when determining punishments. While this flexibility allows tailored decisions, it raises concerns about inconsistent enforcement, which could worsen tensions between drivers and the FIA.

These stricter rules are unlikely to sit well with F1 drivers. Many already have a strained relationship with the FIA under Ben Sulayem’s leadership, particularly regarding the governance of on- and off-track behaviour. Drivers may see these new guidelines as overly restrictive and unfair, further deepening divisions within the sport.

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The 2024 season ended with noticeable friction between drivers and the FIA. These new regulations could intensify disputes in 2025, with drivers likely to resist measures they feel limit their freedom of expression. Striking the right balance between maintaining discipline and allowing drivers to show their personalities remains a key challenge for the sport.

As Formula 1 heads into a new season, the impact of these stricter penalties will be closely watched. Whether the FIA’s approach helps or hinders the sport’s growth and harmony remains to be seen.