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The FIA has introduced new rules that provide for a €40,000 fine for drivers who use swear words, while repeated offenses can result in a ban from racing and points being deducted. These changes have caused mixed reactions among drivers and key figures in the sport, who are not very happy with the new rules.
Drivers warned of new sanctions
If a driver breaks the rule three times within two years, they will face a two-race suspension, which can seriously jeopardize their chances of competing for the title. Max Verstappen was one of the first drivers to come under fire from the FIA for using an expletive at a press conference in Singapore. Ironically, the whole incident happened on the same day that the FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, expressed his displeasure over swearing in public appearances by drivers.
The Dutch driver believes that the new rules go too far and feels that the FIA should focus on more important aspects, such as car safety. Verstappen insists that safety is the most important thing in F1, while he believes that too much attention is paid to things that are not essential to the competition itself.
"Honestly, I don't think this is necessary. We should use common sense and focus on the safety and performance of the car, not on these things," Verstappen told RacingNews365. He also notes that the new rules could have a serious impact on drivers competing for the championship.
"If you get a two-race ban, it's the end of the championship. I think this is just too much," Verstappen concluded.
When asked if he had spoken to Ben Sulayem about it, he said no, but stressed that he would always give his opinion.
"It's a complicated subject, but I don't think it should have gone that far. The rules are too rigid," added the current Formula 1 champion.
It remains to be seen whether the FIA will bow to pressure from drivers or stick with its strict sanctions.
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