The FIA has reiterated its position on the introduction of ‘misconduct’ guidelines in the wake of the World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA)’s statement on Monday.
WoRDA requested a meeting with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem following the decision from Rally Sweden stewards to fine Adrien Fourmaux for swearing in a post-stage interview.
The FIA has provided DirtFish with insight into its wider position rather than offering a specific response to the statement from WoRDA.
An FIA spokesperson said: “Like many international governing bodies or leagues and championships in other sports, we maintain a code of conduct that lays out what we expect of our athletes and their teams.
“Drivers are looked up to as role models by young fans and are ambassadors for the wider world of motor sport, how they act at events matters.
“The code’s purpose is then to promote the best in sportsmanship and respect, including expectations around language that can be seen as offensive or inappropriate by many, or acts that could be deemed detrimental to the sport.
“These rules and penalties are in line with those taken by our peer organisations in other global sports and high-profile leagues and championships.
“As with all rules, particularly those in high-stress and competitive environments, it is crucial to assess situations on a case-by-case basis. But, unnecessary obscenity and profanity are not condoned.”
Asked about the specific point of what happens to monies collected via the fines, the spokesperson added: “The FIA is a non-profit organization. The following areas are where its income – including fines – are reinvested:
“In 2024, the FIA invested over €10.3 million for grassroots activities globally. Last year, the FIA delivered 70 motorsport safety research projects with a budget of €3.8 million.
“There are more than 300,000 volunteers and officials under the direction of the FIA – and 2.7 million motorsport participants worldwide. The FIA invested €1.3 million, which included the development of a new department to streamline the training of those volunteers and officials last year.”
