George Russell has sharply criticised the FIA’s new rule restricting how drivers may express themselves.
The Mercedes driver said there was no need for the regulation and he expects it to be revised before the start of the new season at the beginning of next month.
The FIA added new text to its International Sporting Code for 2023 stating that drivers must be granted permission before making any “political, religious and personal statements or comments” which could be seen as infringing on the governing body’s neutrality. Several drivers have criticised the rule, including Russell’s team mate Lewis Hamilton, who indicated today he is prepared to defy it.
Russell, who is a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, said he’s “not too sure why the FIA have taken a stance like this” when asked by RaceFans about the new regulation.
“I think it’s totally unnecessary in the sport and in the world we live at the moment,” he continued. “Naturally we are now obviously seeking clarification and I trust it will be resolved.
“I’d like to think it’s been some kind of misunderstanding but I’m not too sure. But there’s not really a lot more I can say from from that to be honest. Just seeking clarification, see where we will stand.”
Russell indicated other drivers may refuse to go along with the rule. “We’re not going to limit our views or our thoughts because of some silly regulation. We’re all here to have free speech and share whatever views we may have.”
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali intervened in the row last week, stating the sport will not “gag” its drivers and indicating he expects the FIA will clarify its stance. Russell is confident the situation will change before the F1 season begins.
“I’m sure the situation is going to be clarified and I hope and trust it will be resolved before the first race,” he said. “I can’t imagine they want to restrict any of us from any of our views.
“This is part of freedom of speech and we have our right to share our views across whatever platform we wish. So I don’t see this being a concern moving forward.”
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2023 F1 season
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