The FIA has recently introduced updated stewards’ guidelines detailing the criteria for penalty points and driving standards, aiming to improve transparency in Formula 1. These guidelines, shared ahead of the 2024 season, provide fans and media with clearer insight into stewarding decisions during races.
Understanding the Role of Stewards and the New Guidelines
Though these guidelines are not regulatory, they represent a significant step toward demystifying the stewards’ complex decision-making process. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem highlighted the challenging nature of stewards’ duties and addressed the unfair criticism they often encounter, underscoring the need for better public understanding of their work.
Evolution of Penalty and Driving Standards Tools in F1
For nearly ten years, the Penalty Guidelines have been central to managing driver conduct, with the Driving Standards Guidelines added in 2022 to further refine on-track behavior. The FIA actively involves key stakeholders, including drivers, in shaping these frameworks to enhance fairness and clarity across the sport.
George Russell Supports Transparency and Clarifies New Conduct Rules
Mercedes driver George Russell, who also serves as the director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, welcomed the guidelines‘ release during the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix weekend. The updated rules clearly define acceptable behaviors regarding overtaking, track limits, and defensive driving, setting precise boundaries for competitors on the circuit.
The updated standards remind drivers that accumulating more than 12 penalty points on their Super Licence within a single year could result in a race ban, adding greater consequences to maintaining discipline in the fiercely competitive environment of Formula 1.
The Impact of New Regulations on the 2024 F1 Season
These newly published guidelines signal a shift toward enhanced accountability and clearer expectations for Formula 1 drivers. By empowering stewards and educating stakeholders, the FIA aims to foster cleaner racing and reduce controversies related to penalty decisions. As drivers like George Russell help communicate these changes, fans can anticipate a season with more transparent governance and defined standards of conduct.
“The updated driving standards guidelines, unveiled at the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix, set clear boundaries for racing conduct, including rules on overtaking, track limits, and defensive maneuvers.
” —George Russell, Mercedes driver and GPDA director
“With the Penalty Guidelines being a fundamental tool for almost a decade and the introduction of the Driving Standards Guidelines in 2022, the FIA is dedicated to involving all key stakeholders, including drivers, in shaping the future of racing regulations.
” —Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President