Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the increasingly controversial president of Formula 1's governing body, is back in the spotlight amid moves that could hinder a challenge from rallying icon Carlos Sainz Sr in this December's FIA presidential elections.
Sainz Sr is shaping up as a formidable candidate, with Dutch racing driver Jeroen Bleekemolen endorsing him in conversation with Formule 1: "He is the best possible person in the world to take on this role. Sainz understands and knows exactly how the sport works.
"There's been a lot of political fuss lately, to put it mildly."
Against this backdrop, Ben Sulayem has followed through on his promise to revise his divisive driver behaviour rules.
The FIA confirmed in a statement that "New guidance will significantly reduce the maximum penalties for drivers by 50 percent". Swearing in the cockpit, designated a "non-controlled environment", will also face lighter penalties.
"As a former rally driver, I know firsthand the range of emotions that are faced during competition," Ben Sulayem remarked.
One interpretation is that Ben Sulayem is wary of Sainz, 63, gaining traction ahead of the elections. Reports suggest he is "trying to secure his re-election by amending the statutes and eliminating potential opponents early on".
Auto Motor und Sport's Joel Lischka cites a leaked "classified document" from the FIA's Paris headquarters, outlining proposed changes.
"Anyone seeking the presidency must not only announce their candidacy but also their entire team earlier than before," Lischka noted. "This would theoretically give the FIA commissions more time to find reasons for rejecting potential opponents."
Additionally, revisions to the FIA statutes' ethics guidelines could exclude Sainz Sr due to a conflict of interest, as his 30-year-old son and namesake is an active F1 driver.
These changes may be voted on at the FIA General Assembly in June. "Whether sufficient dissenting votes can be mobilised remains to be seen," Lischka concluded.
