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Stage-End Interviews Set to Resume at Rally Islas Canarias Following FIA Agreement
This week’s Rally Islas Canarias will see the return of stage-end interviews after the World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA) and the FIA reached an important agreement concerning penalties related to inappropriate language during events.
Following a recent incident at the Safari Rally Kenya, where WRC drivers opted to remain silent or speak in their native language during these interviews, the decision has been welcomed by many in the racing community. The initial backlash came after Hyundai driver Adrien Fourmaux was fined for swearing in a live television interview following the conclusion of Rally Sweden.
Fourmaux received a €10,000 fine along with a suspended €20,000 penalty after using the phrase “we f***ed up yesterday” to describe a troubled moment during a stage. This incident marked the first enforcement of the FIA’s crackdown on so-called “inappropriate language,” as defined in Article 12.2.1.l of the FIA’s 2025 International Sporting Code.
The sanctions prompted the formation of WoRDA by WRC drivers, who advocated for the FIA to revisit its stance on swearing, particularly in high-pressure contexts like stage-end interviews. Under the leadership of eight-time world champion co-driver Julien Ingrassia, discussions were initiated with the FIA, leading to a new compromise on how penalties would be dispensed going forward.
As a result of this agreement, from the Canary Islands rally onward, drivers will be exempt from penalties for swearing in stage-end interviews and other spontaneous situations, such as team radio communications. However, sanctions will still apply for swearing during formal press conferences or in designated media zones, mirroring a similar policy recently established in Formula 1.
Even though this new understanding is in effect, the language in the current Appendix B of the International Sporting Code has not yet been altered, which means the formal regulations remain unchanged for now.
“Everyone recognized that our sport is unique, with distinctive elements,” Ingrassia commented. “There are very few sports where participants engage in around 20 live interviews during an event.”
He elaborated on the agreement, noting, “We have designated two areas within the rally itinerary. Controlled zones include press conferences and media sections, where more composed discourse is encouraged and the full regulations apply. Uncontrolled zones encompass stage-end interviews and live radio interactions, where emotions can naturally run high following tense moments.”
Ingrassia assured that as long as discussions surround mild swearing and not behavior that reflects violence or severe misconduct, the established guidelines would work, much like the protocols in place for Formula 1.
Furthermore, the agreement has opened doors for improved communication between drivers and the FIA. Ingrassia has been invited to join the upcoming WRC drivers’ committee meeting to foster ongoing dialogue and ensure that drivers’ perspectives are well-represented.
“This engagement with the FIA is an essential step forward,” he added. “We aim to establish a stronger link between the governing body and the drivers.”
With the rally atmosphere expected to be vibrant in the Canary Islands, Ingrassia expressed optimism, encouraging drivers to perform their best and enjoy the event amidst the agreed understanding.
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