The FIA is thinking about fixing up the sketchy Appendix B of the International Sporting code that deals with penalties for drivers using “inappropriate language.” The governing body cracked down on drivers who swear and use inappropriate language during events, dishing out fines and even bans for those who break the rules.
Hyundai World Rally Championship driver Adrien Fourmaux was the first to get in trouble for swearing during a TV interview at the end of Rally Sweden in February. He got slapped with a €10,000 fine and an additional suspended €20,000 fine.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said improvements to Appendix B are on the table after getting feedback from drivers in FIA-sanctioned world championships. This move comes after Formula 1 drivers were told that they wouldn’t be punished for using heat-of-the-moment language.
The agreement extends to WRC drivers as well, who won’t face penalties for using emotional language in interviews or over the team radio. The new rules on “inappropriate language” zones in WRC events were implemented for the first time at Rally Islas Canarias last weekend.
WRC drivers had been pushing for changes, even staying silent or speaking only in their native language during interviews at Safari Rally. Ben Sulayem, a former rally driver himself, said, “Humans make the rules and humans can improve the rules,” showing his support for continuous improvement in the sport.
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Not entirely sure why this whole Appendix B thing is such a big deal, but the FIA is looking to spruce it up. Drivers have been getting fined left and right for letting a curse word slip or using “inappropriate language” during events. Adrien Fourmaux learned that the hard way after a televised interview at Rally Sweden cost him a hefty €10,000.
President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is taking feedback from competitors in FIA-sanctioned events seriously. Formula 1 drivers got a pass on their language, and now WRC drivers are in the clear too. The new rules were put to the test at Rally Islas Canarias, and it seems like everyone is on board.
WRC drivers had been asking for these changes, going as far as staying mum or sticking to their mother tongue during interviews. Ben Sulayem, a fellow rally driver, is all for making things better. So, let’s see where this whole Appendix B makeover takes us.
