F1 REPORT: Backdrop of the controversy, Verstappen also commented on…. FIA…
“Max Verstappen and F1 Drivers Set to Challenge FIA Over Swearing Controversy Ahead of U.S. Grand Prix”
Max Verstappen and other Formula 1 drivers are still grappling with the fallout from a controversial incident at last month’s Singapore Grand Prix, where Verstappen was penalized for using an expletive during a press conference. The swearing row has remained unresolved, and the drivers are preparing to take a united stance on the matter in the coming week, according to Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) chairman George Russell.
The situation began when Verstappen, frustrated with the performance of his Red Bull car, used explicit language in a press conference prior to the Singapore race. The FIA responded by issuing a penalty, which Verstappen referred to as the F1 equivalent of community service. The incident followed FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s call for drivers to be more mindful of their language during press conferences, particularly in broadcasts seen by a global audience. Sulayem had said that the sport’s stars should be aware of their influence and responsibility in presenting a cleaner image.
Verstappen’s punishment sparked controversy, and his response was defiant. During the rest of the Singapore race weekend, Verstappen deliberately limited his responses in the mandatory FIA press conferences, choosing instead to hold separate media sessions where he gave more detailed answers to journalists. The Dutch driver made it clear that he felt no need to change his behavior and did not believe he should be the one to initiate further discussions with the FIA.
At the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin, Verstappen confirmed that he has not heard anything from the FIA regarding the situation. Speaking in a Thursday press briefing with journalists, Verstappen revealed that the controversy has not progressed. “I haven’t heard anything, so for me it doesn’t really change anything,” Verstappen said. When asked if the FIA had reached out to discuss the matter, he replied, “No. Nothing.”
Verstappen also suggested that he had no plans to alter his approach in future press conferences. He acknowledged that he was always open to a conversation with FIA President Ben Sulayem but reiterated that he would not be the one to initiate it. “I’m always open for a chat [with Ben Sulayem], but from my side, at the moment, it’s not that I am the one that has to reach out with this stuff. I just live my life. I just continue; nothing changes.”
The reigning world champion hinted that his reluctance to engage in lengthy press conferences might persist this weekend in Austin. “With the situation, I also prefer, of course, to talk less, so it’s fine anyway for me,” he said, adding with a laugh, “I mean, I will speak.”
Verstappen’s stance has sparked broader discussions about the drivers’ relationship with the FIA and how the governing body handles such incidents. George Russell, representing the GPDA, emphasized that the drivers are united on the issue and plan to discuss their position with the FIA in the near future.
Adding to the backdrop of the controversy, Verstappen also commented on technical changes Red Bull has made to their car ahead of the U.S. Grand Prix. The team had to adjust a ride-height device, but Verstappen downplayed concerns, saying he wasn’t worried about the impact on their performance.
As the row over swearing remains unresolved, Formula 1 drivers are expected to take a collective stance in addressing the matter with the FIA. Whether Verstappen’s approach to press conferences will change, and how the FIA might respond, remains to be seen as the championship heads into the Austin race weekend.
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