A Proud Milestone for Kenya as Sustainability Takes Centre Stage in Global Motorsport

Nairobi, Kenya – May 2025 The iconic WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 has officially regained the FIA 3-Star Environmental Accreditation, the highest level of sustainability recognition in world motorsport. This prestigious achievement marks a significant milestone not only for Kenya but also for the entire African continent as the rally continues to set the standard for eco-conscious motorsport events.

A Greener Safari Rally

This accreditation, awarded by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), affirms the Safari Rally’s commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability initiatives, and compliance with global ecological standards. With vast savannahs, rugged terrain, and rich biodiversity forming the backdrop, Safari Rally Kenya continues to evolve into a world-class sporting event that balances performance with environmental responsibility.

“This is a proud moment for Kenya,” said a WRC Safari Rally spokesperson. “We are not only preserving the spirit of the rally but also protecting the environment for future generations.”

FIA Reforms Appendix B of the International Sporting Code

Alongside this environmental triumph, the FIA has announced major regulatory improvements to Appendix B of the International Sporting Code (ISC). The decision follows a comprehensive review initiated by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, aiming to enhance fairness, consistency, and accountability in global motorsport governance.

Key Changes to Appendix B:

Reduction of Base Penalty: The base maximum penalty is now reduced from €10,000 to €5,000, marking a 50% decrease. For FIA World Championships, where penalty multipliers applied, the reduction will be even more substantial.

Suspension of Penalties for First Offenders: Stewards can now fully suspend penalties for specific first-time breaches, encouraging positive behavioural correction without immediate punitive action.

Context Recognition: A key addition is the differentiation between controlled and uncontrolled environments, recognizing the context of language used by drivers and teams. This allows more measured and fair responses to spontaneous remarks versus formal press settings.

Focus on Mitigation & Fairness: Mitigating circumstances will be more clearly considered, supported by new guidelines to promote consistency and fairness across steward decisions.

Abuse of Officials & Discriminatory Language: Any abuse of officials will now incur sporting penalties rather than monetary fines, aligning with practices in other major sports. Racial and discriminatory remarks will continue to be dealt with firmly.

Steward Authority Maintained: Stewards retain full authority to decide on the appropriate penalty in any breach of the ISC, ensuring that decision-making remains rooted in experience and context.

Addressing the Driver-Fan Disconnect: A Step Toward Restoring End-of-Stage Reactions

One of the most notable reasons behind the amendment to Appendix B is the growing tension between WRC drivers and race stewards over penalties related to spontaneous remarks. A key turning point was the controversial fine imposed on Adrien Fourmaux, after he was heard cursing during a live stage interview. The fine—viewed by many as excessively harsh—sparked a silent protest among several drivers, who subsequently began skipping end-of-stage interviews altogether.

This shift disappointed many rally fans, as those impromptu interviews offered raw, unfiltered driver reactions, often capturing the adrenaline, frustration, or excitement immediately after a grueling stage. For viewers, these moments added emotion and insight—bringing the drama of rallying to life in ways no analysis or recap could.

By clarifying the difference between controlled and uncontrolled environments, and reducing penalties for first-time offences, the FIA’s updated Appendix B acknowledges the heat-of-the-moment nature of rallying. It gives drivers room to express themselves without fear of disproportionate penalties, while still upholding standards of conduct.

This change is expected to lift the ongoing protest and restore end-of-stage interviews, just in time for fans to enjoy raw driver perspectives at the upcoming Rally de Portugal 2025. With emotions running high on gravel stages and championship pressure intensifying, the return of post-stage commentary promises to reconnect fans with the human side of the sport—the passion, grit, and personalities that define WRC.