FIA reprimands Max Verstappen for using offensive language: Details here
Red Bull Racing's Max Verstappen has been reprimanded by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), Formula 1's governing body, for using inappropriate language during an official press conference. The incident occurred at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, where stewards mandated that Verstappen must "accomplish some work of public interest" as a penalty for his offensive remarks. This decision aligns with recent comments made by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem about potential penalties for drivers who use explicit language over team radio.
Verstappen's response and Hamilton's criticism
Verstappen, along with several other drivers, expressed disagreement with Ben Sulayem's stance on Thursday. Lewis Hamilton criticized the FIA president for using "stereotypical" language with a "racial element" in his remarks during the interview. Verstappen spent 13 minutes with the stewards at Marina Bay between the first and second practice sessions, discussing his use of inappropriate language during an official press conference.
FIA emphasizes role model status of F1 drivers
The stewards emphasized that language used in press conferences should "meet generally accepted standards for all audiences," highlighting the role model status of Formula 1 drivers. In their statement, they noted that Verstappen had explained his use of the offensive word as commonplace in his speech due to English not being his native language. However, they stressed the importance of public figures being mindful when speaking in public forums, especially when not under any particular pressure.
Verstappen apologizes for his behavior
Verstappen has since apologized for his behavior. The stewards noted that significant fines had been imposed in the past for similar offenses. However, they deemed Verstappen's punishment to be "greater" because "this topic has been raised before and is well known by the competitors." The specifics of the public interest work that Verstappen must undertake as part of his penalty are yet to be decided between him and the FIA.
Verstappen in 2024 Formula 1 season
With 313 points, Verstappen leads the F1 2024 Driver Standings. He finished 5th in last weekend's Azerbaijan GP in Baku. McLaren's Lando Norris is placed second with 254 points. He is ahead of 3rd-placed Charles Leclerc, who owns 235 points. Meanwhile, Verstappen is yet to win a race since the 2024 Spanish GP. That's seven races without a win for the Dutchman. He has clocked two podium finishes in these seven races.
