The FIA has one job to govern and monitor the biggest motorsport events around the globe. But, in recent years it has often been at odds with drivers over its strict and sometimes bizarre regulations. While safety measures are necessary, certain rules have left competitors frustrated. Back in 2022, the FIA stunned Formula 1 drivers by reminding them to wear fireproof underwear.

Drivers reacted with confusion and ridicule. Then Alpha Tauri driver Pierre Gasly took a dig at FIA with a cheeky remark. “If they want to check my arse, feel free. I’ve got nothing to hide—my c—, everything,” he had said. At the time, his words sparked laughter and ridiculed the decision. But under today’s FIA leadership, Gasly’s comment could have resulted in a massive fine or even a suspension. That’s exactly the kind of crackdown World Rally Championship drivers are protesting now.

Under current FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, a clampdown on “inappropriate language” has escalated tensions between drivers and the governing body. Recently, the FIA fined a rally driver €10,000 for swearing, sparking a major backlash from the WRC paddock. Now, rally stars have taken a stand in an unprecedented way as they have decided to go “silent.”

WRC drivers follow Max Verstappen’s footsteps!

The controversy escalated after officials fined Hyundai WRC driver Adrien Fourmaux €10,000 for swearing during an interview at Rally Sweden. They also imposed a suspended €20,000 penalty, threatening even higher costs for future infractions. The FIA deemed his comment—“We f—– up yesterday”—as a violation of Article 12.2.1.l of its 2025 International Sporting Code, which prohibits inappropriate language.

This ruling didn’t sit well with WRC drivers as they voiced against it. The situation took a dramatic turn at Safari Rally Kenya, where drivers refused to speak in post-stage interviews. Some remained completely silent, while others only responded in their native languages. Now, WRC drivers have united under the newly formed World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA). Similar to Formula 1’s Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA), WoRDA issued a statement calling for urgent rule changes.

“We all agree to keep rudeness at the microphone to a minimum. At the same time, it is necessary to maintain a certain freedom of expression and to keep emotions alive while drivers don’t need to be afraid of getting punished in any way… This is why we – WoRDA members – are now taking the responsible decision to remain silent at the end of the interviews or to answer in our mother tongue. In the own interest of our sport, such action is unfortunately needed, and we apologize to all the rally fans, even though we know they support us in this,” the statement reads.

Driver’s frustration is understandable. Just like any other sport, motorsports have a very high adrenaline rush, but they also have a microphone attached to them. This makes things worse. While broadcasters often mute or remove the swearing parts FIA wants to completely ban it. The FIA claims it wants to maintain professionalism in motorsport. However, drivers argue that the organization is going too far in policing their behavior.

Their frustration isn’t just about this one fine—it’s about a growing pattern of overreach. Drivers seek clarity on what qualifies as “inappropriate language” and fear fines for minor, heat-of-the-moment expressions. They believe fans appreciate raw emotion and honesty, not sanitized corporate responses. Notably, the fines for swearing incidents are way too harsh. For the first two incidents, fine ranges between 10,000 euros to 67,600 euros while on the third occasion, it can lead to a month’s suspension. Yes, you read it right a month-long suspension for saying “f—”

This issue isn’t exclusive to WRC. Formula 1 drivers have already pushed back against FIA’s rigid approach to language. Last year, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and other F1 drivers protested FIA’s speech rules. Verstappen was fined for swearing about his car’s performance during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. In retaliation, he gave nothing but one-word answers in a Singapore Grand Prix press conference, effectively mocking the FIA’s rule.

The Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA) also released a statement criticizing FIA’s approach, saying: “There is a difference between swearing to insult others and using bad language casually to describe a situation. Our members are adults, they do not need to be given instructions via the media about matters as trivial as this.” F1 stars like Lewis Hamilton called it “a joke” while others also slammed the FIA president. However, FIA have remained firm on their stance as they have their reasonings.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem is under serious threats!

Despite the growing backlash, the FIA has doubled down on its stance. In response to the WRC protest, an FIA spokesperson reiterated that the rules are in place to maintain professionalism and protect the sport’s image. The FIA argues that its regulations align with those of other global sporting bodies. They also claim that case-by-case assessments will be made to ensure fairness.

“Drivers are role models for young fans and ambassadors for motorsport The purpose of the code is to promote sportsmanship and respect. Expectations around language must be upheld, as unnecessary profanity does little to grow the sport with fans, sponsors, and partners,” an FIA spokesperson said. Notably, to address the tension, the FIA has announced that it will hold discussions with WRC competitors after Safari Rally Kenya.

The FIA held a similar meeting with F1 drivers in Melbourne, suggesting that the governing body is at least willing to listen. While they might resolve the situation, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem will clearly struggle in the upcoming elections. His tenure is about to end after this year’s racing season and to get an extension he would require support from various groups. His recent actions and tussle with drivers might not help his case.