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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 once again emphasized his stance against swearing in Formula 1, despite strong opposition from drivers like Max Verstappen. Ben Sulayem insists that drivers should respect the FIA’s wishes and refrain from using offensive language, particularly over team radios during races. This issue was first raised in the previous season when the 63-year-old FIA president proposed a crackdown on swearing in the sport, highlighting that drivers, as prominent figures in motorsport, hold responsibility as role models to young audiences. He compared their language to that of rappers, a comment that was criticized by several in the sport, including seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

The controversy intensified after Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, was penalized during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix for swearing at a press conference. Verstappen’s punishment, which included community service, sparked widespread protests within the paddock. The FIA’s decision drew criticism, particularly from the Dutch driver, who voiced his disagreement with the governing body’s approach.

Ben Sulayem has further pushed for stricter rules regarding driver conduct, with the FIA planning to introduce new regulations in 2025. These changes will impact Article 12.2.1 in Appendix B of the international sporting code, which deals with the conduct of FIA members and the wider motorsport community. The regulation includes penalties for any actions or statements that cause “moral injury” or damage to the FIA’s reputation, its members, or the values it upholds within motorsport.

As part of these new rules, drivers who use offensive language or engage in behavior that breaches the FIA’s guidelines could face significant financial penalties. A first offence would result in a fine of around £33,800 (approximately €40,000), while a third offence could lead to a fine of £101,400. In addition to these fines, drivers could face more severe sporting consequences. Repeat offenders might be handed a one-month suspension from racing, which could severely impact their performance in the championship standings. Furthermore, offenders could face deductions in their championship points, a penalty that could have dire implications on a driver’s title challenge.

These regulatory changes mark the FIA’s continued efforts to maintain a certain level of decorum in the sport and to ensure that drivers understand their responsibility as public figures. However, the aggressive stance on swearing has sparked backlash from drivers who argue that it undermines their authenticity and freedom of expression. Despite the ongoing protests, the FIA appears determined to implement these measures, aiming to maintain a family-friendly image for For

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