With a statement, the FIA once again pointed out that the wording of the rules and processes in Formula 1 must be observed, after there have been repeated statements about possible changes recently that they wanted to take a close look at.
These include skepticism about potential new teams, unease about some aspects of the planned regulations for 2026 and opinions on future engine regulations related to the move to fully sustainable fuels.
In addition, Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali said this week that, in his view, violations of the budget limit should be punished with sporting sanctions and not with financial penalties.
But just as the FIA is barred from interfering in Formula 1’s commercial affairs under antitrust laws, so too is its position as the supreme regulator.
The FIA issued a statement on Thursday saying it would not deviate from its procedure when it comes to possible changes in the future – be it in terms of rules or sanctions.
The statement of the FIA
It states: “The FIA notes that comments have recently appeared in the media regarding changes to the design of the current and future Formula 1 regulations.
“The FIA emphasizes that while it welcomes stakeholder opinions, the regulatory authority for all FIA championships – including the FIA Formula One World Championship – rests with the FIA.”
“Any technical, sporting or financial sanctions and/or changes to the regulations will follow due process.”
This is how rule changes work in Formula 1
Formula 1 governance is laid down in the Concorde Agreement, which sets out a strict protocol for any change to the rules of Grand Prix racing.
Rule changes must first be discussed and approved in the Formula 1 Commission, which is made up of the teams, the FIA and the FOM (Formula One Management).
Changes to the Sporting or Technical Regulations for the following season, made before the end of April, can be approved by a simple majority of five teams voting in favor plus the FIA and the FOM.
Changes for the current season or the following season made after April require a super majority of eight teams and the support of the FIA and the FOM.
A simple majority is required for the financial regulations if the vote takes place before the end of September of the previous year in which the regulations come into force. If the change occurs after the end of September, a super majority is required.
Once the Formula 1 Commission has approved a rule change, it still has to be ratified by the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council before it is officially incorporated into the regulations.