The 2023 Formula 1 season hasn’t even started yet, there are already major events stirring up dust. On the one hand, the disagreements between F1 and the FIA, and on the other hand, the new regulations of the FIA, which somewhat limit the freedom of speech of the competitors. At least when it comes to speaking out on political and social issues.
With the latter several competitors expressed their displeasure.
At the presentation of this year’s Mercedes car, the team’s drivers, George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, commented on the rule.
“I’m not too sure why they took that stance. I think this is completely unnecessary in the sport and in the world we currently live in” – He told Russell, who is also one of the directors of the GPDA, the F1 drivers’ union.
“I’d like to think it’s some sort of misunderstanding, but I’m not too sure. We will not limit our views or thoughts because of some stupid regulation.”
“We’re all here to speak freely and share our views.”
Hamilton said: “There’s nothing that’s going to stop me from talking about things that I feel are important to me and issues that exist.”
“I feel that sport still, still has a responsibility to talk about things, to raise awareness of important issues, especially that we travel to such different places. So, nothing changes for me.”
“It would be silly to say that I want to get penalty points for speaking out, but I’m still going to speak my mind, and because we still have this platform, there’s still a lot of things that we have to deal with.” – He told.
Lewis also pointed out that F1 CEO Stefano Domenicalli supports the drivers’ views and says the field is in full agreement on the issue.
The FIA detailed the political ban rule
