FIA bans drivers from making political statements without permission

Formula One drivers and other participants in motorsport will now be prohibited from making political statements without the FIA's approval. The ban is highlighted in the governing body's International Sporting Code.

There are a number of F1 drivers who have made political statements through their racing attire in recent years, and these are mainly Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton. Vettel, for example, has appeared on the grid several times with a political message on his T-shirt or helmet. In Hungary 2021, he spoke out about gay rights in the country and in Miami last season, he wanted to draw attention to climate issues.

In Article 12 of the International Sporting Code, offences or infringements and penalties, the FIA describes the new ban on political statements: "The general making and display of political, religious and personal statements or comments notably in violation of the general principle of neutrality promoted by the FIA under
its Statutes, unless previously approved in writing by the FIA for International Competitions, or by the relevant ASN for National Competitions within their jurisdiction."

Drivers can expect punishment for non-compliance with rules

Competitors are also reminded that failure to comply with FIA instructions will henceforth be considered a breach of the rules. This is not the first time the FIA has taken steps to prevent F1 drivers from sharing political statements with the sport's audience. For example, it banned drivers from wearing T-shirts during the podium ceremony after Hamilton wore a shirt with a message about Breonna Taylor's death at the 2020 Tuscany Grand Prix.