The FIA has penalized reigning Formula One champion Max Verstappen for using unacceptable language during Thursday’s news conference ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. The stewards called the Red Bull driver for his statements, which were judged “coarse” and “rude,” after he cursed while discussing his car’s performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix earlier this season. After studying the transcript and speaking with Verstappen and Red Bull officials, the stewards judged that the language was inappropriate for broadcasting. T
The FIA emphasized that public remarks from World Championship competitors must follow generally acknowledged norms since drivers act as role models both on and off the track.
“This is clearly stated in the FIA regulations and has been supported by prior cases filed before the Formula One Stewards, particularly in Las Vegas in 2023. The Stewards reviewed the transcript of the FIA Thursday Driver Press Conference in Singapore, and Max Verstappen, the driver of car 1, used language to describe his car at the event in Azerbaijan that is generally considered ‘coarse, rude’ or may cause offense’ and is not considered suitable for broadcast,” according to a statement released by Steward on Friday.
The stewards accepted Verstappen’s use of the language was not intended to offend anyone and that English was not his native language, but they emphasized the significance of remaining professional in public venues.
Verstappen apologized for his actions at the hearing.
Instead of issuing a fine, the stewards ordered Verstappen to perform “public interest work,” as outlined in the FIA’s regulations, demonstrating the governing body’s dedication to preserving high standards in the sport.
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Despite the punishment, Verstappen leads Lando Norris by 59 points heading into the Singapore weekend, while Red Bull trails McLaren by 20 points in the constructors’ title. (Except for the headline, this story was not edited by NDTV staff and is