WRC drivers are protesting FIA’s new misconduct guidelines that penalize swearing. At the Safari Rally in Kenya, they have opted for silence or native language during interviews. This follows the sanctioning of Adrien Fourmaux for inappropriate language. The drivers formed the World Rally Drivers Alliance to advocate for less severe penalties and communicated their desire for changes to the FIA’s rules.
The World Rally Championship (WRC) drivers have expressed their dissatisfaction with the FIA’s recent guidelines that impose sanctions for the use of “inappropriate language” during television interviews. At the Safari Rally in Kenya, drivers voiced their objection by remaining silent during stage-end interviews, communicating in their native languages instead to articulate their reasons for this protest. This silent protest is expected to persist throughout the event.
The discontent has escalated after Adrien Fourmaux of Hyundai was fined €10,000 and given a suspended €20,000 penalty for swearing in a previous interview. His comments during a post-stage interview, deemed a breach of the FIA’s regulations, have galvanized WRC drivers to unite under the World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA), aiming to advocate for changes to these regulations.
WoRDA’s leadership criticized the severity of the penalties imposed by the FIA for minor language infractions, stating that they have reached an “unacceptable level.” The organization has reached out to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to seek an urgent resolution, emphasizing the need to balance emotional expression with professional conduct.
Prominent drivers like Kalle Rovanpera and Ott Tanak addressed their reasons for limited communication during interviews in English, highlighting the heightened emotions experienced after competing stages. They have stated their willingness to refrain from sharing stage comments until a more acceptable agreement regarding language use can be established.
In summary, WRC drivers, through their organized protests and formation of WoRDA, are calling for a reconsideration of the FIA’s sanctions against swearing. This response underlines their desire for autonomy in expressing emotions while maintaining professionalism during competition.
In conclusion, WRC drivers have united in their opposition to the FIA’s recent misconduct guidelines regarding swearing, leading to a protest during interviews at the Safari Rally Kenya. The establishment of the World Rally Drivers Alliance underscores their demand for reconsideration of the severity of penalties imposed for minor infractions. The drivers’ silent stance and limited communication illustrate their commitment to seeking a solution that protects both their emotional expression and adherence to professional standards.
Original Source: www.autosport.com
