JANUARY 23, 2025

FIA further intensifies F1 driver penalties

The Mohammed Ben Sulayem-led FIA is risking upsetting the Formula 1 drivers even more with draconian new penalties for bad behaviour.

Award-winning Dutch F1 journalist Erik van Haren has spotted a new addition to the governing body's sporting code for 2025, outlining a range of ultra-harsh penalties.

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc's penalties for swearing enraged the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) in 2024, but a hypothetical third offense this year could result in six-figure fines and even month-long race bans.

Words, deeds or writings that harm the FIA and motor racing's values, meanwhile, could ultimately lead to the actual loss of world championship points.

The 20 Formula 1 drivers will not be happy with the new system, van Haren surmised.

(GMM)