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FIA president responds to Max Verstappen concerns after issuing unpopular new F1 rule

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the president of the FIA, has firmly reiterated his stance on eliminating swearing among Formula 1 drivers, despite vocal opposition from Max Verstappen and several other drivers. Ben Sulayem is calling for drivers to respect the FIA and adhere to its directives, emphasizing that they must act as positive role models, particularly for young viewers of the sport.

This initiative was first introduced last season, with Ben Sulayem explaining that drivers, due to their high-profile status, have a responsibility to uphold certain standards of behavior, especially when communicating during races. He specifically targeted the use of profane language over team radios, likening it to the lyrics of rap music. This comparison, however, was sharply criticized by some in the F1 community, notably by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who dismissed the analogy.

In keeping with the FIA’s new focus on improving driver behavior, Verstappen was penalized during the Singapore Grand Prix after he used foul language in a Thursday press conference. This resulted in a community service punishment, which sparked widespread controversy among other drivers and team members. Verstappen, in particular, voiced his dissatisfaction with the decision, which further fueled the ongoing debate regarding the FIA’s authority over driver conduct.

As part of the FIA’s ongoing commitment to regulate driver behavior, changes are being made to the sporting code, specifically to article 12.2.1 of Appendix B in the International Sporting Code. These adjustments, set to take effect in 2025, will impose stricter consequences for drivers who fail to adhere to the new language rules. The section defines actions or language that could harm the image or interests of the FIA, its members, or motorsport as a whole. It highlights the importance of maintaining values that the FIA supports and expects to be upheld by those within the sport.

According to the updated rules, drivers will face significant financial penalties for their first and subsequent offenses. Fines will range from £33,800 (approximately €40,000) for a first violation to £101,400 for a third offense. Along with these monetary penalties, repeat offenders may face severe sporting consequences, including a one-month suspension from racing and the potential for points deductions in the championship standings. These measures are aimed at deterring any further breaches of the code and could have major ramifications for a driver’s title hopes if they were to be penalized under the new system.

Ben Sulayem’s continued push for discipline regarding driver conduct, especially in terms of language, highlights his belief in maintaining professionalism and respect within the sport. The FIA’s efforts are viewed by some as necessary to protect the sport’s image, but for many drivers, the strict enforcement of these rules has raised concerns about the balance between personal expression and the governance of mo

torsport.