New rule prohibits Formula 1 drivers from making unapproved political statements

The FIA is attempting to regulate drivers’ political speech.

The organization that governs Formula 1 and other racing series around the world has added an entry into its rulebook that prohibits drivers from making political statements without its approval. According to Article 12.2.1n, drivers are prevented from "the general making and display of political, religious and personal statements or comments notably in violation of the general principle of neutrality promoted by the FIA under its Statutes, unless previously approved in writing by the FIA for International Competitions, or by the relevant ASN for National Competitions within their jurisdiction."

The new rule most notably affects seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton. The all-time winningest driver in Formula 1 is the only Black driver in unafraid to speak out on social justice issues. Hamilton, the only black driver in F1, even wore a shirt that said "Arrest the cops that killed Breonna Taylor" after a win in 2020. Taylor was shot and killed in Louisville after police attempted to serve a warrant to someone else.

The FIA tweaked its rules after Hamilton wore the Taylor shirt to require drivers to keep their fire suits on and showing during post-race interviews and celebrations.

The recently-retired Sebastian Vettel had also become more outspoken in his final years in F1. Like Hamilton, Vettel had used his helmet to promote social causes and had been unafraid to advocate for environmental and climate issues. Vettel also wore a shirt supporting LGBTQ rights ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix. Gay marriage is not legal in Hungary.

While there appears to be no specific impetus for the latest FIA rule change, the move isn’t uncommon for the governing body. Before the 2022 season, the FIA implemented rules regarding the jewelry drivers can and cannot wear. Many felt the rule targeted Hamilton based on its wording, though Hamilton was given an exemption for some races at the beginning of the year before he removed his nose stud ahead of the British Grand Prix over the summer.

Hamilton was openly critical of the rule and said that “we’ve really got to start focusing on more important areas.”