The FIA has authorized drivers and teams from Russia and Belarus to return to competing under their national flags. The decision was approved by the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) and has been in effect since August 3.
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This change also allows the playing of the national anthems of the two countries in international competitions organized by the FIA, including Formula 1. Previously, these possibilities were prohibited following the emergency measures adopted by the entity in 2022, after Russia’s military attack on Ukraine.
According to the new determination, drivers, national teams, individual competitors, and Russian and Belarusian officials can participate in international and regional events without restrictions related to neutrality. The requirement to sign a neutrality commitment is no longer applied, while national symbols, colors, flags on uniforms, equipment, and cars are now allowed.
However, the decision establishes a territorial restriction: “No international competition will be held on the territory of Russia and Belarus until further notice,” determined the WMSC.
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The FIA also highlighted that the participation of competitors remains subject to the applicable laws in each country: “The participation of Russian and Belarusian drivers, competitors, and officials in a given country remains subject to compliance with any applicable transnational, national, and local laws,” the entity added.
According to the FIA, the situation in Ukraine will continue to be monitored. The organization added that it reserves the right to adopt new measures in the future, including those necessary to comply with any sanctions or obligations provided for in contracts of which it is a part.
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