(Motorsport) According to new F1 rules imposed by the FIA, drivers will be restricted from making “political, religious and personal statements” without prior approval from the sport’s governing body. The decision by the FIA has been criticised by a number of Formula 1 drivers including Alex Albon and reigning champion Max Verstappen who have both publicly criticised the FIA’s move.

“I think more than anything it’s a bit of confusion. 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” said Alex Albon at Williams’ 2023 car launch.

Meanwhile, reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen 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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