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WRC Drivers Unite Against FIA’s Sanction on Language
In a notable response to recent sanctions imposed by the FIA, World Rally Championship (WRC) drivers have collectively decided to limit their comments during stage-end interviews at the Safari Rally Kenya. This decision stems from a growing discontent regarding the FIA’s crackdown on what it terms “inappropriate language” used by drivers.
During the shakedown session on Wednesday, several drivers chose to either abstain from commenting altogether or expressed their reasons in their native languages. This approach indicates a concerted effort to maintain their stance against the FIA’s regulations, and it may persist throughout the event.
Among those who opted for silence was Hyundai’s Adrien Fourmaux, who made headlines recently as the first driver sanctioned under the FIA’s new policy. Toyota’s Takamoto Katsuta also refrained from making any statements when questioned by television journalist Julian Porter following their initial shakedown runs.
Fourmaux faced a fine of €10,000, along with a suspended €20,000 penalty, after he exclaimed, “we f***ed up yesterday,” in a post-stage interview during the Rally Sweden event last month. This incident was cited as a violation of Article 12.2.1.l from the FIA’s International Sporting Code, which addresses the use of language deemed inappropriate.
Since then, a coalition of drivers and co-drivers has emerged, forming the World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA), akin to the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA) in Formula 1. WoRDA has publicly criticized the FIA’s measures, articulating their concerns in a detailed statement. They are seeking dialogue with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to address these sanctions, which they believe are excessively punitive for minor lapses in language.
In their statement, the alliance noted that while they agree to minimize rudeness during interviews, it’s crucial to preserve a degree of freedom of expression. They stressed the necessity of allowing drivers to express emotions without the fear of severe repercussions. They expressed their intention to engage the FIA in conversations to bring about constructive changes in the rules governing driver interviews.
“For the reasons highlighted in our statement, we find it challenging to assure the FIA that we can adhere to these new regulations consistently,” WoRDA stated. “Therefore, as responsible drivers and co-drivers, we find it necessary to remain silent at interviews or respond in our mother tongue, in the interest of our sport. We appreciate the rally community’s support during this time.”
As of now, the FIA has not publicly addressed WoRDA’s position and has yet to engage in discussions with the group following their recent outreach.
Toyota’s Kalle Rovanpera and Hyundai’s Ott Tanak articulated their perspectives during the shakedown, highlighting their reasons for limiting statements. Rovanpera mentioned, “It is nice to be here in Kenya, but unfortunately, this weekend, you might not hear from me as much. If this is what we must do to initiate change, then we will.” Tanak added, “The adrenaline can be quite high post-stage, and given the recent actions, we can’t provide comments until we feel comfortable doing so again.”
The ongoing situation underscores the tension between drivers seeking to maintain their authenticity and the FIA’s efforts to regulate conduct in the sport. As discussions continue, both sides face the challenge of navigating their respective stances while striving for a resolution that respects the spirit of competition and driver expression.
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www.autosport.com