Max Verstappen says the FIA needs to “use a bit of common sense” when it comes to drivers swearing and wants more focus to be on what he deems to be more important topics within Formula 1.
The FIA changed added an appendix to the International Sporting Code last month, outlining the punishments available to stewards for drivers that are guilty of misconduct, including swearing. An escalating level of fines for each offense means a driver could be subject to a fine of over $120,000 and a one-month suspension, as well as the deduction of championship points, should they be found guilty of misconduct for a third time.
Verstappen was central to the topic last year when he was ordered to complete some work of public interest for using a swear word to describe his car’s handling during an FIA press conference, and he believes the amount of focus on the issue has been over the top.
“It’s a lot of money,” Verstappen said. “Honestly, from my side, I think it’s not necessary to be like that with the rules.
“I think you need to use a bit of common sense. Besides that, I prefer that we actually focus on other topics to try and improve safety, try and improve the overall performance of Formula 1 cars, instead of actually having to focus on all these kinds of things. It’s a bit unnecessary, I think.
“It’s a complicated matter, I would say, with that … I always share my opinion. Like I say now, I think it’s just a bit much. It’s not necessary to put it like that, fully written down.”
Verstappen is far from alone with his viewpoint among the drivers — or fans, who booed the FIA logo when it was shown at F1 75 live — and Oscar Piastri also believes the increasing monetary fine approach is not necessary.
“It’s obviously a popular story at the moment,” Piastri said. “I think potentially some of the sentiments are maybe a little bit strong, but I think there’s also a valid point in not swearing where it’s not necessary to.