Formula One: FIA seeks to clarify free speech rules after driver backlash

PARIS – Formula One drivers can make political and personal statements “in their own space” this season but face sanctions if they do so during track activities such as podium ceremonies and anthems, the governing FIA said on Friday.

What drivers can say and do has been a major talking point since the International Sporting Code was in December updated to require written permission before drivers make or display “political, religious and personal statements or comments”.

The move has been heavily criticised by drivers, and rights campaigners.

Britain’s seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has often used his platform to highlight racial injustice and challenge human rights abuses, said on Wednesday that nothing would stop him from speaking out when it comes to things that he is passionate about.

“The sport has a responsibility to speak out and create awareness on important topics, particularly as we are travelling to different places,” the 38-year-old said.

McLaren’s Lando Norris suggested the FIA was treating drivers like schoolchildren.

The FIA’s Guidance On The Principle Of Neutrality, uploaded on its website and sent to the 10 Formula One teams on Friday, attempted to set out in practical terms what was allowed.

“Participants can 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,” it said.

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

“On an exceptional and case-by-case basis, the FIA may authorise a participant to make a statement at an international competition that would otherwise be prohibited,” it added.

“When expressing their views, participants are expected to respect applicable laws, the FIA’s values, and all other participants.”

The FIA also said drivers could not make political, religious and/or personal statements during the pre-race parade, anthem and post-race procedures. Those who do not comply may be subject to various penalties, ranging from a warning to suspension.

It would be up to the stewards to decide, on a case-by-case basis, whether a breach had been committed and a list of potential scenarios had been prepared to help them.

Examples included unapproved statements or comments relating to “any military conflict or political dispute between nations, regions, religions, or communities”. But drivers would be allowed to display religious symbols and ornaments.

An FIA spokesman said the body wanted to “ensure neutrality during key moments across all motor sports competitions, such as podiums, national anthems and official activities on the field of play”.

“It does not impose any additional restrictions on individuals expressing their views outside of these times.”

The season starts in Bahrain on March 5. REUTERS, AFP