It was a hot topic at the F1 75 event in London – the FIA’s new rules on swearing. From now on, the organization will impose hefty fines on drivers who use swear words or otherwise engage in coarse language in the media. Are such measures justified in an extreme sport like Formula 1? The drivers have their doubts.
The issue was already controversial last year. FIA President Ben Sulayem had just announced that Formula 1 drivers are ‘not swearing rappers’, when Max Verstappen used the word ‘fucked’ in a press conference. He had to pay for it with a community service penalty. Not much later, colleague Charles Leclerc received a monetary fine for a similar offense. Clear penalties have now been established in the regulations.
Drivers can expect fines of up to 40,000 euros for a first offense. A second offense doubles the amount to 80,000 euros and results in a one-month suspension. A third offense is punished with a fine of 120,000 euros, a one-month suspension, and deduction of championship points. Serious consequences indeed.
‘Use your common sense’
Max Verstappen was asked about the new rules during a press conference in London. “I’d rather not talk about it – otherwise I’ll get in trouble,” he joked. “I mean, it’s a lot of money. Honestly, I don’t think it’s necessary for me to deal with the rules in this way. You also have to use a bit of common sense. Besides, I’d rather we focus on other topics – improving safety or optimizing the overall performance of the cars. This is a bit unnecessary.”
George Russell, chairman of the drivers’ union, also believes the fines are excessive. “I’m not someone who swears often, but for many of the drivers, English is not their first language,” he told The Sports Agents Podcast. “If you start threatening with fines, drivers will start walking on eggshells. They might become afraid to express themselves for fear of punishment. That’s going too far.”
‘Personality Aspect’
Yuki Tsunoda had the audience laughing when asked about the measures. Everyone knows that the young Japanese driver is known for his heated on-board radio communications. “For me, it’s something that shows your personality,” he responded. “Besides, it’s not just the drivers who swear. We’ve had the proper media training. Maybe I’ll swear more in my private life now, but in Formula 1, I’ll at least try not to… mess up,” he censored himself.
For all rookies who will move up to Formula 1 in 2025, it’s quite simple, explained Oliver Bearman. The 19-year-old Brit is making his debut with Haas this year. “I certainly can’t afford to swear, so that’s a good start,” he said with a laugh. “Of course, it’s become a big topic during the winter break, but I’m sure we’ll find a way to satisfy all parties.”
