New FIA Regulations
FIA Updates Guidelines and Penalty System for 2025 Season
The FIA has introduced significant updates to its guidelines and penalty system for the 2025 Formula 1 season. This move is seen as an important step towards making race regulations clearer and easier to understand for both drivers and teams.
Previously kept confidential, the newly published document is now available on the FIA’s official website and provides detailed insights into how race stewards make their decisions.
Key Changes
The new guide clearly outlines the criteria by which drivers’ attacking and defending maneuvers will be assessed:
A. Attacking on the Inside Line:
1. The attacking driver must have their front wheels at least alongside the opponent's mirrors at the corner entry and apex. 2. The move must be made under full control, especially from corner entry to apex, avoiding risky "dive-bomb" attempts. 3. The driver must remain within track limits, follow a viable racing line, and complete the maneuver cleanly.
B. Overtaking on the Outside Line:
This is considered a more challenging move. An attacking driver on the outside may claim space until the corner exit if the following conditions are met:
1. Their front wheels are ahead of the opponent's at the apex. 2. The maneuver is controlled from corner entry to exit. 3. The car must be able to stay within track limits while navigating the corner.
C. Chicanes and "S" Shaped Turns:
The same principles can apply to both inside and outside attackers. However, stewards may give priority to the driver with the advantage into the first part of the sequence.
It's important to note that this is a guide, not a set of rules. Decisions will still be made on a case-by-case basis. The FIA emphasizes that the guide is not legally binding but aims to help drivers and teams understand how stewards are likely to interpret on-track incidents.
Factors Considered by Stewards:
When making decisions, stewards will consider:
1. How did the move start? (e.g., late braking, direction change under braking) 2. Was the attack timely and made in good faith? 3. Could the driver see or reasonably anticipate the situation ahead? 4. Was the move likely to be completed on track? 5. Did oversteer, understeer, or locked wheels occur? 6. Did any driver position their car in a way that contributed to the incident? 7. How did corner type, kerbs, and other elements affect the maneuver? 8. What was the condition of the tires and grip level?
Russell’s Reaction
Mercedes driver and GPDA director George Russell praised the initiative, saying it adds much-needed clarity and transparency to stewarding decisions.
