George Russell urges the FIA to implement real changes to conduct rules, emphasizing that drivers need action, not just promises.
George Russell, the director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), has responded to recent comments from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem regarding potential rule changes. Russell insists that any proposed changes to the rules of conduct must be implemented in practice, not just discussed.
The FIA’s recent release of guidelines on language use caught many F1 drivers off guard and sparked controversy across various motorsport disciplines, including the World Rally Championship. Drivers have questioned both the enforcement of these rules and the approach they see as overly strict.
The situation seemed to ease earlier in the season, as it was clarified when the FIA expected different standards of conduct. However, Ben Sulayem stated this week that “improvements” to the regulations were being “considered,” though no timeline, details, or guarantees were provided.
When asked whether this marked a positive step forward, Russell replied, “Conceptually, yes. But we obviously want to see these changes actually take place, rather than just hearing ‘we are considering things.’ We all ‘consider’ a lot of things, don’t we?”
Russell made it clear that the drivers want change and that they’ll provide feedback once these changes are implemented. Until then, he emphasized that words alone don’t hold weight without action.
He confirmed that there has been no direct communication with the FIA on this matter, though there was a thorough discussion during the driver briefing at the start of the season in Australia.
“It would be great if changes were made and if the drivers were at least listened to. I think it’s in the sport’s best interest to ensure some common sense is applied in these situations,” he said.
“But like I said, we’d prefer to provide feedback on actual measures rather than just talking about them.”
The FIA has been working to engage more directly with drivers where possible. The regular Friday driver briefings provide a platform to discuss smaller-scale issues, such as those arising from the previous race.
Longer discussions are also held annually, where feedback on race direction and steward decisions is addressed.
However, when asked if these discussions should be more formal, Russell responded, “I feel like we’ve been through an unprecedented period in the last 18 months with all the changes and events that have unfolded.”
“When the GPDA was first established years ago (in 1961 and then restructured in 1994), it wasn’t really about politics; it was about safety and improving the sport and racing. Personally, I find myself discussing topics I didn’t really intend to.”
“But we’re living in an era where we’re not focusing on what really motivates us all. We’re here to race, to put on the best show for the fans, to have the fastest, safest cars, the best technology, the best engineering. And yet we’re talking about fines, penalties, and language.”
“So, yes, maybe something needs to change. We’re open to it. But at the end of the day, we just want what’s best for the sport.”
- Discover More>Norris Focuses on Personal Improvement, Not Piastri’s Edge
- Follow us on >FACEBOOK and >TWITTERfor F1 update
Russell Demands Action from FIA on Conduct Rules
Russell Demands Action from FIA on Conduct Rules
- Doohan Erupts as Alpine Error Ends His Sprint Hopes
- Hadjar Hits SQ3 in Miami Chaos, Lawson Left in the Dust
- Alonso Shocks in SQ3 as Stroll Slams Verstappen
- Hamilton Sees Progress, Leclerc Stalls in Miami Battle
- Verstappen Faces Scrutiny After Tough Sprint Qualifying in Miami