Max Verstappen, the Dutch driver for Oracle Red Bull Racing, stirred controversy ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix by using swear words over team radio. Defending his championship title against McLaren’s Lando Norris, Verstappen’s derogatory remark about his Red Bull F1 car, the RB20, during a Drivers’ Press Conference triggered disciplinary action.
The FIA imposed a community service punishment on Verstappen. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum on public broadcasts, stating, “we are not rappers” and highlighting that many families watch the sport. This punishment aims to deter inappropriate language on team radio, setting a precedent within the sport.
Verstappen responded cautiously, expressing his discontent with the severity of the punishment. “I find it, of course, ridiculous what happens. So why should I then give full answers?” he remarked. He added, “They want to set the precedent, and people got warnings or a little fine… Now with me, they wanted to set an even bigger example, I guess.”
Former world champion Nico Rosberg advised Verstappen to focus on his championship defense rather than the controversy. “If I was in Max’s position though, this would not be so good because he’s wasting his energy on this,” Rosberg noted, emphasizing the need for full focus during this critical period.
