Max Verstappen has been punished by F1 stewards for using inappropriate language during the Singapore press conference ahead of the Grand Prix weekend.
The incident happened on Thursday’s Singapore press conference after Max Verstappen candidly expressed his frustrations regarding his car’s performance at the Azerbaijan GP, where he finished fifth.
The reigning world champion described the situation as “f***ed,” which was captured live and subsequently reviewed by F1 stewards.
Verstappen was later summoned to explain his remarks following the first practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix after the stewards reviewed the transcript of the press conference and concluded that his language was unsuitable for broadcast.
The governing body deemed his language “coarse and rude,” concluding that it was not suitable for broadcast. They referenced Article 12.2.1k of the International Sporting Code, which prohibits language that may cause moral injury or loss to the FIA or its members.
In their official statement, the F1 stewards emphasized that participants in the World Championships serve as role models both on and off the track. However, they acknowledged that Verstappen’s language was not directed at any individual or group but still emphasized the importance of maintaining professional standards in public forums.
They noted that while the Red Bull driver claimed to have learned English as a second language and considered the word he used to be commonplace in conversation, it was crucial for public figures to be mindful of their speech, especially when addressing fans and media.
As a result of his actions, Verstappen has now been ordered to complete “some work of public interest,” although specific details regarding the task remains unknown. The Dutchman did apologize for his choice of words, but this did not mitigate the consequences of his actions.
The ruling comes just a day after FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem urged drivers to refrain from using foul language over team radio, pointing out that motorsport should maintain a level of decorum distinct from other entertainment forms, such as rap music.
The Singapore press conference incident has sparked discussions among drivers about the pressures they face during races and whether their spontaneous remarks should be subject to scrutiny.
Leading drivers like Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc have defended their use of passionate language in high-pressure situations, arguing that it reflects their adrenaline-fueled emotions during competition.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton also criticized Ben Sulayem’s comments about swearing in the sport labeling them as “stereotypical” and pointing out potential racial implications in comparing drivers to rappers.
The FIA has previously taken action against foul language in press conferences; for instance, team principals Toto Wolff and Fred Vasseur received warnings last year for their choice of words during a heated exchange at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
This pattern indicates a growing intolerance within Formula One for inappropriate language as part of an effort to maintain professionalism in the sport.
Despite the controversy, Max Verstappen enters the Singapore weekend with a substantial 59-point lead over Lando Norris in the drivers’ standings. Meanwhile Red Bull Racing is currently engaged in a tight battle with McLaren for the constructors’ championship, trailing by 20 points.
