FIA Clarifies Rules on F1 Drivers' Free Speech, Drivers Push Back

Formula One drivers have been given permission to express their personal and political views, but only in their "own space" and not during track activities, such as podium ceremonies and anthems, according to new guidelines released by the FIA.

The directive came in response to the International Sporting Code, which required prior written permission to make or display "political, religious and personal statements or comments".

The move was heavily criticised by drivers, with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton insisting that nothing would stop him from speaking out.

McLaren's Lando Norris called out the FIA, saying they were treating drivers like schoolchildren.

The FIA's "Guidance on the Principle of Neutrality" stated that participants could express their views on any political, religious, or personal matter before, during, and after the international competition, but only in their own space, and outside the scope of the international competition.

This could be via social media, media interviews, and during the FIA news conference in response to direct questions from accredited journalists.

The FIA's directive also stated that drivers could not make political, religious, and/or personal statements during the pre-race parade, anthem, and post-race procedures.

The stewards would decide on a case-by-case basis whether a breach had been committed, with examples including unapproved statements or comments relating to "any military conflict or political dispute between nations, regions, religions, or communities".

Drivers will still be allowed to display religious symbols and ornaments, but they will face sanctions if they break the rules. Penalties range from a warning to suspension.

Hamilton, who has used his platform to highlight racial injustice and challenge human rights abuses, believes the sport has a responsibility to speak out and create awareness on important topics.

"So nothing changes," he said.

Norris, however, believes the FIA is stifling drivers' voices. "It's still very strict," he said.

"It's still very controlled, and they're still trying to control everything we say and do, which is not really fair."