Red Bull driver Max Verstappen has reignited his feud with the FIA, criticizing his punishment for swearing during a press conference in the 2024 F1 season.
The controversy began when Verstappen used foul language in an FIA press conference before the Singapore Grand Prix in September. The FIA sanctioned the reigning World Champion, requiring him to “undertake some work of public interest.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem previously called for a crackdown on swearing, claiming, “We have to differentiate between our sport and rap music.” In protest, Verstappen offered short, curt responses during FIA media events throughout the Singapore GP weekend.
His stance received support from several drivers, including Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who advised him against complying with the punishment. McLaren’s Lando Norris called the action “pretty unfair,” and rally legend Sebastien Ogier also followed Verstappen’s lead, staying silent in interviews after being fined for his own remarks.
While Verstappen completed his punishment at an FIA grassroots motorsport event in Kigali, Rwanda, he expressed frustration with the sport’s direction. Speaking to Viaplay, Verstappen said, “Of course, I understand you can’t swear in a press conference, but it was an expression that came out very quickly… To be punished like a little kid makes me wonder: what are we doing in this sport?”
FIA President Ben Sulayem claimed Verstappen was “so happy” to participate in the community service and suggested making such obligations standard in driver contracts.
As Verstappen eyes the 2025 season, he is on thin ice with eight penalty points, just four away from a race ban. Reflecting on the incident, he hinted that such measures and the demands of modern F1 could influence his plans to retire young.