In a bold statement challenging the FIA’s new anti-swearing policy, Dutch Formula One sensation Max Verstappen humorously suggested he might intentionally violate the rule to secure a suspension. This, he jests, would allow him to witness the birth of his child—an event he might otherwise miss due to the demanding Formula One schedule.
Last year saw the FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, enforce a stringent policy against drivers using expletives. The move led to Verstappen serving a day of community service after uttering the F-word during an official FIA press conference. In retaliation, Verstappen limited his responses at subsequent press briefings, opting to fully express his thoughts to the media outside the confines of the FIA’s official events.
The Red Bull racer completed his community service in Rwanda, ahead of the end-of-season award ceremony. However, this year, the stakes have risen significantly. The FIA has announced more severe penalties for offenses under Article 12, such as misconduct, foul language, and causing ‘moral injury’ to the governing body of motorsport. These punishments now range from fines and suspensions to the deduction of World Championship points.
Verstappen, who is expecting a child with partner Kelly Piquet early this season, seized the opportunity to poke fun at the situation. Speaking to the Dutch publication Algemeen Dagblad, he quipped, “You can’t take two months off. Or I have to be suspended because I have too many penalties for swearing.”
Ziggo Sport pundit Ola Mol, while appreciating Verstappen’s wit, doesn’t believe the four-time World Champion would purposefully court a suspension. He does, however, foresee Verstappen finding ways to dodge the early-weekend media frenzy.
Mol, commenting on Verstappen’s unique approach, said, “That’s exactly the authenticity he has. He wants to race so badly that he’s not really going to do that, but if we start imposing this kind of thing on him, he thinks: ‘then I’ll turn it my way’.”
Mol also expressed concerns about Sulayem’s clampdown, fearing it could rob drivers of their individuality and voice. He argued for a more balanced approach, allowing drivers and team bosses to regulate their conduct rather than having the FIA impose stringent rules.
Mol lamented the corporate-driven nature of modern Formula One, recalling past instances when drivers were more outspoken. He invited the FIA to reconsider its position, suggesting that it might be overstepping its role.
He concluded by saying, “If that (the FIA’s rules) are then imposed on you by the FIA, then I think that’s going too far.” His words carry a poignant message about the balance between maintaining discipline and allowing room for individualism in the high-stakes world of Formula One.