F1 News: McLaren CEO Zak Brown Comments On Latest FIA Ruling – “It Did Get Out Of Control At Times”
McLaren CEO, Zak Brown, has spoken out about the latest rule change from the FIA.
The FIA’s decision to prohibit drivers from making “political statements or comments” during a race weekend has sparked controversy within the Formula 1 community. The decision was made through an amendment to the sporting regulations, which now requires drivers to seek permission from the FIA before making any such statements. We have not heard much from any driver’s or team principal’s on this, however, Brown has commented on the changes during an interview with ESPN.
The statement reads:
“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 move has been met with criticism, particularly in light of Formula 1’s “We Race As One” initiative, which was introduced only a few years ago and aims to promote inclusivity and diversity within the sport. Earlier this year, Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, stated that the sport must move beyond the “gesture” of taking a knee and begin taking “other action” to address important social issues.
Brown said in an interview with ESPN:
“I think, in general, we want to be a sport that is doing good. We just need to find a balance there and not have every start of a race being a new political agenda for someone.
“I don’t think that’s healthy, as it can detract from what everyone had tuned in to, which is they want to watch a Grand Prix.
“I’m glad the door is open for drivers and teams to talk to the FIA if there’s an issue they want to discuss… Everyone is allowed freedom of speech. It did get out of control at times with so much messaging going on… does it detract from the focus on the sport?
“These drivers can do this stuff in their own time, so I think it’s within Formula 1 and the FIA’s right to say, ‘here’s the code of conduct we expect for you to follow’.”
Most of the driver’s and teams seem to be keeping quiet on this at the moment so it will be interesting to see if any more comments come out after Brown’s.
