(Motorsport) Formula 1’s governing body FIA have received a lot of backlash after imposing a new rule that prohibits “personal, religious and political statements” without prior approval from the governing body. This has led to human rights groups as well as Formula 1 drivers expressing their unhappiness and uncertainty about the issue with Alex Albon and reigning champion Max Verstappen publicly criticising the FIA. However, Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali has responded to the criticism by saying that he expects the FIA to clarify it’s position soon.

“F1 will never put a gag on anyone. Everyone wants to talk, so to have the platform to say what they want in the right way the better it is. We have a huge opportunity because of the position of our sport which is more and more global, multicultural and multi-valued. We are talking about 20 drivers, 10 teams and many sponsors, they have different ideas, different views. I cannot say one is right, one is wrong but it is right, if needed, to give them a platform to discuss their opinions in an open way.

“We will not change that approach as a sport. That should be the line of our sport, to give everyone the chance to speak in the right way, not with aggressive tones or to offend but with respect. I believe the FIA will clarify what has been stated, in terms of respecting certain places where you cannot do it. I am sure the FIA will share the same view as F1 but they are part of an Olympic federation so there are protocols to which they have to abide” said Stefano Domenicali.

FIA chief Mohammed Ben Sulayem had previously said that the updated code was “in alignment with the political neutrality of sport” and follows the guidelines set in place by the International Olympic Committee’s code of ethics as the IOC gave full recognition of Formula 1 in 2013. Williams driver Alex Albon had previously stated that drivers were “confused” and “concerned” about the change in regulations. He said “Last year we were focused on the We Race As One initiative and I think we were doing a good job addressing certain issues around the world. We’re using our profiles in the right way.

“We were maybe going to some circuits that were slightly controversial, but we were handling it by addressing topics in these places that we felt needed awareness. It seems like we’ve slightly gone back on that now. There is most probably a different view between the drivers, FIA – but even also F1. We need to understand and have a talk about it.”

The Thai-British driver’s comments were also echoed by reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen who said “Everyone’s different so people are more outspoken than others. I’m normally not that outspoken – first of all it’s tough as a racing driver to be fully committed to that in terms of going into everything and making sure you know the facts. But I don’t think [the rule] is necessary, because in a way you are making sure people are not allowed to speak and I think we should be allowed. It was probably a bit unnecessary.”

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