World Rally Championship drivers are staging a protest at Safari Rally Kenya by limiting their media interactions following the FIA's recent crackdown on swearing during interviews.

The protest comes after M-Sport Ford's Adrien Fourmaux received a €10,000 fine, plus a suspended €20,000 penalty, for swearing during a TV interview at Rally Sweden.

Following Wednesday's shakedown stage, drivers either remained silent, used their native languages, or provided minimal responses. Championship leader Elfyn Evans spoke Welsh, while 2024 champion Thierry Neuville explained in French that there would be limited communication due to the lack of dialogue with the FIA.

Two-time WRC champion Kalle Rovanpera, one of the few to speak English, kept his response brief, stating it was necessary to make a difference. Hyundai's Ott Tanak explained that drivers couldn't provide end-of-stage comments until the situation becomes more comfortable for them.

The World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA) issued a statement acknowledging the need to minimize rudeness while maintaining freedom of expression and emotional authenticity. They emphasized that drivers shouldn't fear punishment and announced their decision to either remain silent or communicate in their native languages during interviews.

The drivers apologized to rally fans for the protest action but noted it was necessary for the sport's interests, expressing confidence in fan support for their stance.

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