FIA tweaks rule to boost power over ‘misconduct’ in F1

An updated version of the FIA’s International Sporting Code (ISC) has expanded the governing body’s power when dealing with matters of “misconduct” in Formula 1.

Across the last handful of years, team members including drivers have been scorned for vocalising displeasure with officials during race weekends.

In 2021, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner referred to a “rogue marshal” after Max Verstappen lost his qualifying lap at the Qatar Grand Prix.

At this year’s Monaco Grand Prix Haas Team Principal called the FIA stewards “laymen” after Nico Hulkenberg was issued a five-second penalty for contact with Logan Sargeant.

Most recently, Sergio Perez was warned by the stewards in Abu Dhabi after he voiced anger over a time penalty he received after coming together with Lando Norris.

The batch of incidents were noted under Article 12.2.1 (k) of the ISC which has now been tweaked ahead of the 2024 campaign.

In the previous version, Article 12.2.1 (k), outlawed any ‘misconduct’ aimed at ‘officials’, ‘officers or member of FIA staff’, ‘organisers or promoters’, ‘doping control officials’ among others including suppliers and contractors.

In the updated ISC, Article 12.2.1 (k) now simply reads that ‘Any misconduct’ will be outlawed.

Other changes to the ISC include the controversial increase of the maximum applicable fine which has been raised from €250,000 to €1 million.

Drivers questioned the new rule, with Mercedes’ George Russell labelling it as an “obscene” change.

The use of flares in grandstands has also been prohibited after their frequent use in recent years - particularly at European rounds, outlined by Article 12.2.1 (p) of the ISC.

At the Austrian Grand Prix earlier this year a flare was thrown from a grandstand and landed near the track.

Finally, the deadline for FIA competition participants to submit a right to Review has been shortened from 14 days to 96 hours.