The DSGs were first introduced in 2022 at the request of the drivers, who sought clarity on what is and is not permitted in scenarios involving overtaking and defending on track. These guidelines have since been reviewed twice following their introduction.
On Thursday at the Qatar Grand Prix weekend – and with the issue of steward rulings becoming a subtle but growing controversy among drivers – the FIA held its third annual review of the rules governing driver conduct.
The FIA met with all drivers on the 2025 grid for review of the Driving Standards guidelines – Photo: Race Pictures
The meeting, which was also attended by the three recommended driver stewards for the 2026 campaign, examined several incidents and rulings from recent races that had come under scrutiny.
Here are the key issues raised from the FIA meeting with the drivers
Issues raised from the FIA–drivers meeting
The meeting, which focused on a small but crucial sample size, considered several incidents, including the following:
Carlos Sainz’s collision with Oliver Bearman at the Italian Grand Prix was also in the spotlight.
Key takeaways from the meeting with the drivers
Among the key takeaways from the meeting was the emphasis on the need for greater respect for yellow flags and the discussion of a potential additional concept to further enhance safety.
A clear preference for hearings to be held after the race, when stewards believe not all relevant elements may be available during live running, was also agreed.
Both the drivers and the FIA acknowledged that the guidelines cannot cover every scenario, highlighting the need for an experienced driver steward on each panel.
The possibility of adding guidelines relating to blue flags for lapped cars was also discussed.
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