FIA Publishes Formula 1 Penalty and Driving Standards Guidelines
The FIA has taken a significant step towards enhancing transparency within Formula 1 by publicly releasing detailed guidelines on driving standards and penalties. This move is aimed at fostering a better understanding of the decision-making processes that govern race incidents.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the complexity and dedication involved in the stewards’ roles, stating, “FIA stewards perform a hugely complex task… They do this voluntarily, with great passion and commitment.” He added, “Publishing the Penalty and Driving Standards Guidelines will give fans and members of the media a much deeper and more accurate insight into how decisions are made in Formula 1.”
The newly available documents include a comprehensive 13-page penalty guideline covering approximately 100 potential incidents related to both drivers and teams. Additionally, the driving standards guidelines, updated since their introduction in 2022, address critical topics such as overtaking, track limits, and driving conduct on the straights.
George Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers Association, welcomed the publication as a positive step towards transparency and better comprehension of racing regulations. He stated, “This is a useful step in that direction… to help them understand how the stewards reach their decisions.”
The release coincides with comments from Carlos Sainz Sr., who ruled himself out of the FIA presidency and remarked on the need for significant organizational changes. His son, Carlos Sainz, acknowledged a historical lack of transparency in FIA governance but expressed hope for improvements, saying, “This year has certainly been frustrating for the most part… Let’s see if it improves.”
While some drivers like Sainz question the timing and motivations behind the publication, there is a consensus that the guidelines reflect a growing effort to include drivers’ perspectives in governance.
Overall, the FIA’s initiative to publish these guidelines marks a crucial evolution in how Formula 1 engages with its stakeholders, promoting an informed racing culture.
