In what appears to be a growing rift between Formula 1 drivers and the sport’s governing body, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is cracking down on what he deems as “unprofessional” behavior from drivers, particularly their use of foul language over team radios and in interviews. The move has stirred controversy, with Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen becoming the first high-profile target of this new regulation.
Max Verstappen, now a three-time Formula 1 World Champion, was slapped with a penalty that includes community service for what the FIA deemed inappropriate language. The reigning champion didn’t hide his dissatisfaction, responding with minimalistic answers during the post-race and post-qualifying press conferences in Singapore. Despite toeing the line with the FIA, Verstappen ensured the media got what they needed outside of the FIA-controlled environment, showing his quiet defiance.
Verstappen’s father, Jos, a former F1 driver himself, did not hold back when asked about the matter. Speaking to Motorsport.com during the East Belgian Rally, Jos called out Ben Sulayem’s recent actions as “ridiculous” and took a jab at the governing body. “I don’t think the FIA is doing a very good job,” he said, clearly unimpressed by the latest bureaucratic twist in the F1 paddock. “But I won’t say too much about this!” Jos quipped, making it clear that he didn’t want to invite more scrutiny from the FIA.
This isn’t the first time the FIA’s clampdown on driver behavior has sparked outrage. World Rally Championship (WRC) driver Sébastien Ogier also found himself in hot water earlier in the month. Ogier received a suspended €30,000 fine for his remarks directed at officials during the Acropolis Rally in Greece. Similar to Verstappen, Ogier responded with cold, curt answers during media obligations at the Rally Chile event, signaling his discontent with the latest FIA edict.
When questioned about his subdued media demeanor, Ogier was unapologetic: “We have been told by the top of the FIA to shut our mouths.” This statement mirrors Verstappen’s own quiet defiance in Formula 1, highlighting a broader discontent among drivers in multiple FIA-regulated championships.
As the FIA faces increasing criticism for its heavy-handed approach, it’s clear that the battle between drivers and the sport’s governing body is far from over. The Verstappen family, already known for not shying away from controversy, seems prepared to push back, and they’re not alone. The question remains: Will the FIA’s crackdown create more harmony in the sport, or will it continue to fuel rebellion among its star athletes?
One thing is certain—this power struggle isn’t going away anytime soon.
