FIA President Plans Revisions to Penalty Guidelines After Driver Feedback

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is considering revising the controversial Appendix B of the International Sporting Code after receiving extensive feedback and complaints from drivers across all FIA world championships, including F1. Appendix B currently prescribes strict penalties—including large fines, points deductions, and suspensions—for misconduct such as swearing or disrespecting the Federation, but drivers have protested that the rules are overly harsh and inconsistently applied. The FIA president acknowledged the need for continuous improvement and signaled openness to making the guidelines fairer and more transparent. This follows recent controversies over both the swearing penalties and unclear new driving penalty guidelines that have confused teams and drivers, with even Red Bull's management expressing uncertainty. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between drivers and the FIA, particularly under Ben Sulayem's leadership, and underscores the call for clearer, more consistently enforced rules. Any changes to Appendix B and the penalty system aim to ensure the sport remains accessible and fair while addressing the concerns raised by its participants.