At the recent Safari Rally Kenya, World Rally Championship (WRC) drivers protested the FIA's enforcement of strict language regulations by limiting their media interactions. This action was in response to a €10,000 fine imposed on Hyundai driver Adrien Fourmaux for swearing during a live television interview at Rally Sweden in February.

During the shakedown session in Kenya, many drivers chose to remain silent or spoke only in their native languages during stage-end interviews. For instance, reigning world champion Thierry Neuville addressed the media in French, expressing disappointment over the lack of communication with the FIA since Fourmaux's fine. He stated, "We are sorry there has been no more communication between the FIA and us [drivers]. We are not the kind of people that insult or offend others."

The World Rally Drivers Alliance (WoRDA), established in the wake of Fourmaux's penalty, has criticized the severity of the sanctions for minor language lapses. They have called for direct dialogue with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to find an "urgent solution" to the issue.

The FIA has reiterated its stance on inappropriate language but has agreed to discuss the matter with WRC competitors following their protest at the Safari Rally Kenya.