FIA provides clarity on allowing political statements

Lewis Hamilton has already revealed that he will not care about the FIA's ban on political statements during a Grand Prix weekend. Other drivers have also already expressed surprise at the international motorsport federation's move to respond to political statements. This compels the FIA to provide further clarity.

The FIA sent a document to F1 teams on Friday, detailing what is and is not possible for drivers. Motorsport accessed the document 'Guidance on the Principle of Neutrality (Article 12.2.1.n of the ISC)'. According to the FIA - writes the motorsport site - drivers are free to express their beliefs, but only at specific times and in certain circumstances. Moreover, the condition remains that the drivers have sought prior permission.

Free to express their opinions

The FIA writes that drivers are free to 'express their views on any political, religious or personal matter before, during and after the International Competition, in their own space, and outside the scope of the International Competition', such as on social media and during media interviews, including the FIA press conferences.

Yet there are conditions: they are not supposed to make statements during the drivers' parade, the national anthem, photos with the other drivers before and after the season and on the podium. It specifically states that this also includes hand gestures and wearing certain clothing. According to the FIA, only expressions that are neutral are possible unless specifically asked a question by a journalist on a political topic.

Should a driver fail to comply with the rules, stewards at the race are authorised to hand out a penalty if necessary.