FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem Drives Major Reforms to Appendix B of the International Sporting Code

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FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem Drives Major Reforms to Appendix B of the International Sporting Code

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has announced sweeping revisions to Appendix B of its International Sporting Code (ISC), following a comprehensive review spearheaded by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The new guidelines aim to promote consistency, fairness, and transparency in disciplinary actions across all levels of motorsport.

The update, which follows months of collaboration with the FIA Drivers’ Committee, chaired by Ronan Morgan, as well as Formula One Steward Chairs and FIA Member Clubs, reflects the FIA’s ongoing commitment to uphold sporting integrity while acknowledging the real-time pressures athletes face.

Key Reforms to Appendix B:

Maximum penalties halved: The base maximum penalty has been reduced from €10,000 to €5,000, cutting financial penalties by 50%. For FIA World Championships, where penalty multipliers previously applied, reductions are expected to be even more significant.
Suspended penalties for first-time offenders: Stewards may now fully suspend penalties for certain first-time breaches, promoting fairness and rehabilitation over punishment.
Contextual application of rules: The revised Appendix B distinguishes between controlled environments (like press conferences) and uncontrolled environments (such as spontaneous remarks on track), allowing stewards greater discretion.
Enhanced clarity on mitigating circumstances: New guidance supports stewards in applying penalties consistently while considering the context and intent of the offence.
Sporting penalties for abuse of officials: Aligning with other global sports, abuse of officials will now incur sporting sanctions instead of monetary fines.
Zero tolerance for discrimination: Racial and discriminatory behavior remains a serious breach and will continue to be firmly sanctioned.

President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the importance of balance and empathy:

“As a former rally driver, I know the intensity of competition firsthand. These changes strengthen the ISC while giving stewards clear, fair tools to respond proportionately. Our goal is to ensure that motor sport remains inclusive, accountable, and respectful.”

Ronan Morgan, FIA Drivers’ Committee President, added:

“Drivers are ambassadors of our sport. These reforms show empathy for the competitive pressures they face, while maintaining high standards of conduct both on and off the track.”

With the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) having approved the amendments via e-vote, the updated Appendix B takes effect immediately across the FIA’s seven World Championships.