Lewis Hamilton has fiercely criticized the FIA’s decision to penalize Max Verstappen for swearing during a press conference, branding the punishment as “a joke.” Verstappen landed in hot water after he described his Red Bull’s performance in Azerbaijan as “fucked” during Thursday’s media session in Singapore. The FIA deemed his language a breach of the International Sporting Code and ordered the three-time world champion to complete community service as a form of public interest work.
The ruling has sparked a backlash, with Hamilton and Lando Norris both questioning the severity of the penalty. Speaking after qualifying, where Norris took pole and Hamilton secured third, both drivers expressed their disapproval. “I think it’s pretty unfair, I don’t agree with any of it,” Norris remarked, echoing the sentiment that the punishment was overly harsh.
Hamilton went a step further, urging Verstappen to boycott the penalty altogether. “I think it’s a bit of a joke, to be honest,” said the seven-time world champion. “This is the pinnacle of the sport. Mistakes are made. I certainly wouldn’t be doing it, and I hope Max doesn’t do it.”
Verstappen, visibly frustrated, refused to answer questions during the FIA press conference on Saturday, choosing instead to speak to the media outside the official setting. His reaction highlights the growing tension between drivers and the sport’s governing body, as some argue that the FIA’s focus on minor infractions detracts from the real challenges on track.
As the debate over the penalty continues, it raises broader questions about the FIA’s approach to discipline and the impact of such rulings on the sport’s top competitors. Hamilton’s outspoken support for Verstappen underlines a rare moment of unity between fierce rivals, united in their belief that the focus should remain on racing, not off-track controversies.
