Formula 1 drivers have issued a strongly-worded statement in response to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem regarding the recent swearing controversy in the sport. The Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), representing all 20 current drivers, has called out Ben Sulayem over his comments about the use of foul language by drivers and has raised concerns about the handling of fines and financial transparency in the sport.
GPDA’s Response to FIA President’s Remarks on Swearing
The GPDA, effectively the drivers’ union of Formula 1, criticized Ben Sulayem’s comments made just before the Singapore Grand Prix. The FIA president had stated that he wanted to see less foul language on air, specifically in relation to driver radio communications, which are often broadcasted to millions of F1 fans worldwide. While acknowledging the importance of maintaining a professional image, the GPDA pointed out that there is a difference between casual swearing—used to describe challenging weather, driving situations, or inanimate objects like cars—and language meant to insult others.
In their statement, the GPDA urged Ben Sulayem to “consider his own tone and language when talking to our member drivers” and emphasized that drivers are adults who do not need media instructions on trivial matters such as the wearing of jewelry or undergarments, referencing the controversial jewelry ban imposed in 2023.
The Impact of Swearing and Fines on Formula 1 Drivers
The issue of swearing came to the forefront following the Mexico City Grand Prix, where Charles Leclerc was fined €10,000 for using a swear word during a post-race press conference. Despite apologizing for his language, Leclerc still faced a penalty, drawing further attention to the FIA’s handling of driver misconduct.
Max Verstappen also found himself at the center of controversy after swearing during a press conference. The Red Bull Racing driver was given the F1 equivalent of community service for his remarks. This led Verstappen to limit his participation in several official media appearances, citing concerns over the handling of driver behavior.
F1 Drivers Raise Concerns About Financial Fines and Transparency
In addition to addressing the issue of swearing, the GPDA also expressed concerns about the use of monetary fines in Formula 1. The association has repeatedly called for transparency regarding how the FIA allocates these fines, urging open dialogue between all stakeholders—FIA, F1, teams, and the GPDA. The drivers have voiced their opinion that fines are not the most appropriate way to handle misconduct and that financial transparency is crucial to the sport’s integrity.
The statement underscored the need for the FIA to involve drivers in discussions on how financial penalties are utilized and how they can better serve the sport, rather than contribute to a negative image.
Max Verstappen’s Opportunity to Clinch the 2024 Title at Las Vegas GP
As the controversy over swearing and fines continues, Max Verstappen is set to have his first chance to clinch the 2024 Formula 1 World Championship at the Las Vegas Grand Prix on November 24. The Las Vegas GP marks a crucial moment in the F1 season, and Verstappen is looking to secure another title, further solidifying his dominance in the sport.
F1 Drivers Seek Better Consistency and Stewards for the Future
The GPDA’s statement also highlighted concerns regarding the inconsistency of race stewards, noting that different stewards at each race create confusion and inconsistency in rulings. George Russell and other drivers have called for permanent stewards to ensure better consistency in race decisions. Russell also made a point about the apparent inconsistency in fines, mentioning the absurdity of paying £50,000 for a minor infraction like walking across a racetrack, suggesting that the funds should be better allocated to ensure the best stewards are involved in F1 races.
F1 Drivers Demand Transparency and Fairness
As the Las Vegas GP approaches, the issues surrounding swearing and monetary fines in Formula 1 continue to divide opinions. The GPDA has called for greater transparency from the FIA regarding financial matters and more constructive communication between all parties involved in the sport. Meanwhile, drivers like Max Verstappen are focused on the upcoming races, with the chance to secure the 2024 F1 World Championship adding another layer of excitement to an already heated season. As the season reaches its climax, both on-track battles and off-track controversies will shape the future of Formula 1.
