Many in the Formula 1 community are awaiting a response from seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, following the shocking update that has been made to the FIA’s International Sporting Code (ISC).
The governing body has faced an incredible amount of backlash over the last two days, following the announcement that drivers will no longer be allowed to support campaigns, communities, or movements, without the FIA’s permission.
As a result to an update of Article 12.2.1.n in the ISC, drivers will be deemed to have breached the regulations if they show “the general making and display of political, religious and personal statements or comments notably in violation of the general principle of neutrality promoted by the FIA under its Statutes, unless previously approved in writing by the FIA for International Competitions, or by the relevant ASN for National Competitions within their jurisdiction.”
The new regulations will come into effect from the start of 2023, with the question now being if the drivers will respect it or not.
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Many are predicting the latter, as the regulation change has been judged by many as impeding a competitor’s freedom of speech, a right that should be respected across the globe, but sadly isn’t.
Formula 1 and the FIA have been praised over the years for allowing drivers to use their unbelievable platform to show support for various movements, with Hamilton having consistently worn clothing and helmets in recognition of ‘Black Lives Matter’ and the LGBTQ community.
Should he follow the rules, then the 37-year-old will only be allowed to do any of the sort should he ask the FIA first, and if they follow the request up by giving their approval.
Whilst the updates made to the ISC can be slammed as shocking and outrageous, it remains to be seen how strict they’ll be in regard to giving permission.
Many are hoping that they’ll allow drivers to support, for example, the LGBTQ community in the Middle East, where same-sex marriage remains largely illegal.
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Even if this is the case, though, the FIA are still impacting a driver’s freedom of speech, hinting that the governing body may be heading down a disappointing path.
Unsurprisingly, many fans have hit out at the governing body, with one suggesting that Hamilton’s incredible support of several movements is “bothering” the FIA.
“If Lewis Hamilton is bothering the FIA, it’s because he’s right!” wrote the Twitter user.