Formula 1, Sportrik Media - The governing body FIA has introduced revised driving standards and penalty guidelines in Formula 1 following strong criticism from drivers during the 2025 season. The changes emerged after a detailed meeting between drivers and FIA officials held at Lusail International Circuit late last year.
The revision was prompted by several controversial steward decisions across the season, including a penalty issued to Carlos Sainz Jr after contact with Liam Lawson at the opening corner of the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix. Sainz initially received a time penalty along with two penalty points on his superlicence following the collision.
However, Williams Racing successfully filed a right of review with the FIA, presenting additional evidence to the stewards. After reassessing the case, the governing body removed the penalty points from Sainz’s superlicence.
Under the revised framework for the 2026 season, penalty points will now only be issued in cases involving “dangerous, reckless, or apparently deliberate actions resulting in a collision,” as well as conduct considered unsporting. The FIA aims to provide clearer guidance to stewards while ensuring consistency in race officiating.
The updated guidelines also grant stewards greater flexibility when assessing incidents. For example, when a driver locks the brakes while attempting to avoid contact, the officials may consider the “laws of physics” once the car is fully locked up and the driver has limited ability to prevent a collision.
Another area addressed involves aggressive overtaking manoeuvres where a driver dives to the apex to claim corner rights. The issue gained prominence following high-profile battles between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris during the 2024 United States and Mexico City Grands Prix. The new guidance clarifies that even if a driver secures the corner, the rival car “cannot simply disappear,” meaning racing room must still be considered.
The FIA has also refined expectations regarding driver behaviour under yellow and blue flag conditions to strengthen consistency in steward decisions. With the updated framework in place ahead of the 2026 championship, the governing body hopes the clearer standards will reduce disputes while maintaining fair competition throughout the season.
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