F1 drivers to face fines, bans for swearing, political statements

FILE – Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands leads the field after the start of the F1 Dutch Grand Prix race at the Zandvoort racetrack, Netherlands, Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong, File)

Stricter policies for 2025 mean Formula One drivers could face hefty fines, suspensions and even championship points deductions for such indiscretions as swearing or making political statements.

The FIA, the sport’s governing body, published new guidelines for stewards in Appendix B of the 2025 International Sporting Code released on Thursday.

READ: F1: Charles Leclerc fined for swearing after Mexico Grand Prix

The regulations introduce penalties for “any words, deeds or writings that have caused moral injury or loss to the FIA” or its officials; for public incitement to violence or hatred; and for the making or display of political, religious and personal statements “in violation of the general principal of neutrality promoted by the FIA.”

Another regulation cites general “misconduct” as laid out in Article 20 of the ISC. That section covers the use of language or gestures that is offensive, insulting, coarse, rude or abusive.

Fines at the F1 level range from 40,000 Euros ($41,700 USD) for a first offense, to 80,000 Euros ($83,400 USD) for a second offense, up to 120,000 Euros ($125,000 USD) for a third offense. The third offense also includes a one-month suspension and deduction of championship points.

The 2025 F1 season opens at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 16. –Field Level Media