Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, have announced some major rule changes ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

The FIA have made changes ahead of this weekend’s Grand Prix. Image: GettyThe main changes to Appendix B are as follows:

• The base maximum penalty has been reduced generally from €10,000 to €5,000. This is a reduction of 50%. However, for FIA World Championships, where multipliers were involved, the reductions will be even more significant.
• Stewards will have the option to fully suspend a penalty for certain types of breach, provided it is the first offence by the driver or team.
• Following approval via e-vote by the WMSC, the amended Appendix B will allow stewards to differentiate between controlled and non-controlled environments, effectively recognising the difference between language used in “uncontrolled” and “controlled” environments. Controlled environments include settings such as press conferences, while uncontrolled environments refer to spontaneous comments made by drivers or teams when on track or during a rally stage.
• Mitigating circumstances will continue to be considered, with additional guidance available to promote consistency and fairness for all parties in the application of Appendix B.
• Abuse of officials will now result in sporting penalties rather than fines, aligning motor sport with other major global sports organisations
• Racial and discriminatory comments will continue to be addressed firmly.