The FIA has released details of some of the rules set after the latest World Motor Sport Council meet regarding various matters including F1.
The FIA WMSC recent meet confirmed certain rule changes for various championships, including F1. They acknowledged Pirelli’s appointment as the sport’s sole supplier for the period of 2025 and 2027, which includes feeder championships F2 and F3.
The relevant committees and working groups work regarding the 2026 regulations also got a green signal whether it is for the Power Unit, Sporting, Technical and Financial Regulations. The amendments regarding supply and development of fuel was also passed.
The tyre testing programme for Pirelli was too granted where they requested for an increase in the number of days from 35 to 40. They also got an approval for a maximum of four days for research into spray reduction techniques in wet weather.
The FIA along with some F1 teams and Pirelli undertook few tests this year of new wheel pod to reduce reduction of spray but the initial feedback hasn’t been up to the mark. “Following the ongoing work of the relevant Committees and Working Groups and approval by the Power Unit manufacturers, the World Council approved several refinements to the 2026 Power Unit Sporting, Technical and Financial Regulations, as well as amendments regarding the supply and development of fuel,” it stated.
“The World Council approved an update to the Sporting Regulations increase the number of days permitted for official tyre testing from 35 to 40. Additionally, a provision to add a maximum of four car days of testing organised by the FIA in consultation with all Competitors for the express purpose to facilitate the research into spray reduction techniques in wet weather, was approved.”
In a separate change to the International Sporting Code, the FIA approved the upper limit of fines that stewards can imposed for certain penalties. On the F1 side, the fine limit stood at 250,000 euros currently, but now they can go up to 1,000,000 euros.
For all other FIA World Championships, it will be 750,000 euros and for all other FIA-backed championships, cups, trophies, challenges or series, it will see a limit of 500,000 euros. They have also approved the ban of pyrotechnics at sporting venues.
The flares has become prominent at certain venues but they are no longer allowed as instructed by the European Union council. “In October 2022, the Council of the European Union stressed the need to prevent and counter the use of pyrotechnics at sports venues,” stated the FIA.
“Following review of the situation in motor sport, it has been concluded that the unauthorised use of all pyrotechnical devices at races can pose significant public health and safety risks and, as such, should be prevented and countered. The World Council therefore approved new provision and definition in the ISC prohibiting the unauthorised possession and use of pyrotechnics at FIA competitions.”
Both F1 chief Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also acknowledged the recent approval of Andretti for Phase 3 process to feature on the Formula 1 grid from 2026 season. The decision is now at the hands of FOM, who are discussing the commercial possibilities.
“2023 so far has been another fantastic year for our sport and we thank everyone involved across the FIA, F1, teams, promoters and partners,” said Domenicali after the meet. “We and the FIA continue to work closely to ensure we stay focussed on the important issues for the sport and build on the momentum we have.
“We note the points made regarding the FIA’s new team entry process and as we have said before, we will now make our own assessment of the merits of remaining application. We look forward to the remaining races of the season and to the 2024 season.”
Meanwhile, Ben Sulayem stated: “We have made considerable progress in the past few months in efforts to improve our sport and support our members. As part of our knowledge-led approach, we have launched two FIA University Programmes, the Motorsport Leadership and Management, and FIA University Certificate in Modern Sport Governance.
“We are also focusing on deeper engagement with our Member Clubs and have appointed regional co-ordinators in Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Africa, MENA and Europe. Our campaign to combat Online Abuse is building momentum, and we have recently launched a first-ever survey in collaboration with fellow sporting governing bodies which is designed to address the impact of online abuse against athletes, officials, volunteers, and others involved in sport.
“I firmly believe that, if we do not tackle this issue, it will pose a real threat to our sport and others. We have recently announced the approval of Andretti Formula Racing’s application following a rigorous due diligence process. I would like to thank the FIA team members for their support in this process and I congratulate them for what they did. We firmly believe we are doing what is best for the long-term sustainability of the sport.
“I also welcome the recent announcement of Aston Martin and their commitment to enter the Hypercar class of the FIA World Endurance Championship from 2025. This class is going from strength to strength with an impressive line-up of some of the world’s biggest manufacturers. At the grassroots level, we must celebrate the first successful Asia-Pacific Motorsport Championship, which drew 171 competitors from 23 countries. These events are vital to achieve our goal of doubling participation in motorsport.”
Here’s approved Formula E calendar
Here’s approved WRC calendar
Here’s F1 bosses on CapEx resolution
Here’s F1 drivers on radio conversations
Here’s F1 drivers and teams on Andretti situation
Here’s FIA revisiting on Lewis Hamilton penalty
Here’s FIA verdict on Lance Stroll
Here’s link to a F1 Discord channel, join in to interact
