In the wake of incidents such as Lewis Hamilton's 'hooning' in Australia - of particular embarrassment for the driver and the FIA as it came at a time when both were promoting road safety - the FIA has announced that it will punish drivers who get into trouble on public roads.

A statement issued following this morning's meeting of the WMSC reads:

The FIA, both in its motor sport and mobility roles, has a strong interest in promoting road safety. Competitors at FIA events must act as ambassadors for the sport, be aware their conduct on the road must be exemplary and respect road safety rules. A proposal to amend the international sporting code will be submitted to the FIA General Assembly to clarify that any holder of an International Super Licence must also be in possession of a current road driving licence.

Additionally, the Code will be amended to clarify that if an International Super Licence holder is involved in a serious road traffic offence recognised by a national police authority, the FIA, depending on the severity of the case, may issue a warning or refer the matter to the International Disciplinary Tribunal, which may temporarily or indefinitely withdraw the competitor's International Super Licence.