Nov.29 (GMM) Formula 1’s long-running standoff over the sport’s hated driving-standards guidelines entered a new phase in Qatar, with the FIA issuing a formal statement after a key GPDA meeting – but confirming no changes will be made for Qatar or Abu Dhabi.
GPDA directors George Russell and Carlos Sainz have led the charge against the so-called Driving Standards Guidelines (DSGs), arguing they’ve turned wheel-to-wheel racing into a bureaucratic box-ticking exercise.
Russell didn’t mince words: “A global sport like Formula 1, which generates billions in revenue, must be able to pay permanent stewards.”
Sainz was even blunter before the meeting: “There’s been quite a lot of division between drivers, FIA and stewards. A lot of confusion.
“The guidelines have created more problems than solutions. There’s been barely any room for racing incidents this year – everything is black or white.”
He added that overtakes were being judged by arbitrary metrics –
“a tyre in front or behind a mirror” – instead of racing intuition.
Following Thursday’s closed-door review, the FIA thanked drivers for a “frank” exchange but confirmed the final two rounds of 2025 will run under the existing interpretation.
The governing body defended the DSGs as a “living document” introduced at the drivers’ request, and insisted that data shows improved consistency.
The statement also quietly acknowledged the drivers’ biggest demand – that experienced ex-drivers must sit permanently on steward panels.
Another talking point was a preference for post-race hearings when stewards lack full data.
But the key line from the statement was: “No changes will be made for the final two Grands Prix of the 2025 season.”
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
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