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WRC Drivers Protest FIA's Strict Language Rules During Safari Rally Kenya

The World Rally Drivers Alliance leads a silent protest against penalties for swearing, prompting the FIA to plan discussions with competitors after the event.

Pierre Gasly of France and Alpine F1 team speaks in the media pen during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Australia at Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit on March 14, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia.
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Overview

  • WRC drivers are refusing interviews or speaking only in native languages during Safari Rally Kenya to protest the FIA's language rules.
  • The World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA) organized the protest, calling for changes to rules they say stifle emotional expression and impose harsh penalties.
  • The controversy escalated after driver Adrien Fourmaux was fined €10,000 for swearing during Rally Sweden, with potential for even harsher future penalties.
  • The FIA defends the rules as necessary for professionalism and maintaining motorsport's image but has agreed to hold discussions with drivers after the rally.
  • Criticism of FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem's leadership grows, with tensions over governance and driver relations impacting his standing.