A document published on Friday by the FIA highlights the rules that everyone, pilots in primis, will have to respect in order to adapt to the so-called "principle of neutrality". The new updating of the International Sporting Code aims to neutralize statements, gestures, demonstrations on certain topics, which, if not previously approved by the FIA, would lead to various sanctions.
In particular, the FIA did not like the behavior of some drivers, such as Hamilton e Hag, sensitive to issues such as climate change, inequalities, which often, in recent years have expressed their dissent towards the institutions, even the host nation, making themselves heard on the track. Especially during the pre-race ceremonies. However, the freedom of the drivers ends where that of the FIA begins. And the Federation wanted and had to clarify this precisely with a document that explains in detail what, when and how the pilots will be able to deal with certain issues.
Approval one month before GP
Pilots will be free to express themselves on certain topics only in certain circumstances, and with prior authorisation. Authorization which, for some messages, must be requested at least one month before the Grand Prix. The FIA explained that pilots will be able to “express their views on any political, religious or personal matter before, during and after the International Competition, in their space e outside the scope of the International Competition”, such as on social media and during media interviews. Instead, it will not be possible to make statements during the riders' parade, the anthem, or the riders' group photo. It is also prohibited to make statements, gestures, or wear certain items of clothing on the podium.
"Participants are not allowed to make political, religious and/or personal statements in violation of the general principle of neutrality during FIA press conferences (except in response to direct questions from accredited journalists)”.
What are “banned” statements?
The messages that pilots will not be able to promote concern political, religious and personal statements or comments. So comments on any local, regional or national government for example. Or provocative messages that discriminate against certain religions or religious and spiritual beliefs. The pilots will not be able to use the competition as a public square in essence, where to promote certain causes. This is because they would violate the principle of neutrality – article 2 of the Statute – promoted by the FIA.
"The updates reinforce the FIA's long-standing commitment to protecting the neutrality of motor sport and will notably ensure neutrality during key moments of all motorsport competitions, such as podiums, national anthems and official' activities on the pitch.".
Violations will be settled by the stewards during the race weekends.
As for the authorization the FIA guide states that the drivers who request it will have to do so "at least four weeks before the event in question” and says that “late requests will be considered by the FIA only exceptionally“, with any permit granted which will only cover one F1 event. As for helmets, often used by pilots to promote messages of peace, love and inclusion, the FIA has advised asking for authorization for them too, to avoid the risk of incurring a fine.
Source: Motorsport.com
