The International Automobile Federation (FIA) has made changes to the International Sporting Code, expanding the powers of race stewards.
According to Idman.Biz, citing Race Fans, starting from 2026 stewards in Formula 1 and other championships will be able to independently initiate a review of their own penalty decisions.
Previously, only teams had the right to request a review, provided they submitted new and significant evidence. The rule change was prompted by a high-profile incident at the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix, when Williams successfully overturned a penalty imposed on Carlos Sainz. At the time of the original verdict, stewards did not have access to onboard footage from Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson’s car, which later became a key piece of evidence.
Another important amendment allows the FIA, if necessary, to appoint a different panel of stewards to investigate incidents after an event has concluded. Previously, this required reconvening the original group of officials.
Statistics show that successful reviews in Formula 1 remain rare. Since 2019, teams have submitted 14 requests under the “right of review,” with only four of them being upheld.
It should also be recalled that the 2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix will take place on September 24–26.
