Motorsport's governing body has clarified its controversial decision to require Formula 1 drivers to have written permission before taking "politically" motivated stances.
- The FIA announced in December that drivers would need written permission to make political statements
- The governing body has now clarified that rule, preferring drivers to make statements "in their own space"
- Lewis Hamilton said he would not be silenced on issues that he feels passionately about
The FIA made the announcement during the F1 off-season, but it did not go down well with many drivers.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who has been one of the sport's most vocal on issues about race relations, said earlier this week he would not be silenced.
The FIA, who is the governing body of Formula 1 but not the commercial rights holder, has now said drivers can express their views "in their own space, and outside the scope of the international competition".
In an update to their sporting code, the FIA said drivers can "express their views on any political, religious or personal matter before, during and after the international competition".
Examples the FIA gave include on social media, during interviews with "accredited media" or during an FIA-sanctioned press conference when they are directly asked a question on an issue.
F1 drivers have been vocal about international issues for many years, most notably in the previous three seasons.
Many drivers have worn shirts with "Black Lives Matter" or "End Racism" on them.
In 2020, Hamilton wore a shirt at the Tuscan Grand Prix that said "Arrest the cops who killed Breonna Taylor" — referencing a shooting in the United States in 2020.
Sebastian Vettel, who retired at the end of last season, wore several shirts supporting the LGBTQI community and campaigning for climate action.
The FIA said their ruling on political statements — Article 12.2.1n of the sporting code — maintains the body's political neutrality.
"Like the International Olympic Committee and many other sport governing bodies, this principle is reflected in its core rules, which sets out the FIA's commitment not to discriminate on account of race, skin colour, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic or social origin, language, religion, philosophical or political opinion, family situation, or disability," it said.