Formula 1 drivers are fuming over the FIA’s latest hardline stance—this time, not on track limits or technical regulations, but on language itself. A newly enforced “swearing tax” threatens to slap drivers with eye-watering fines and even championship penalties for using profanity in official broadcasts.
Under these controversial rule changes, which took effect in January, a first offense will cost a driver €40,000 ($41,864), a second jumps to €80,000, and a third infraction escalates to €120,000—plus a one-month suspension and a deduction of championship points.
The move has left the paddock in disbelief, with many questioning whether FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s priorities are in the right place.
Albon Slams FIA: “Do We Think It’s Right? Of Course Not.”
Speaking at the launch of Williams’ 2025 F1 challenger at a chilly Silverstone, Alex Albon didn’t hold back. The Thai driver, who has no disciplinary history related to swearing, revealed that the rule change had become a major topic of discussion among drivers.
“There’s definitely been discussions about it. We’re still ongoing about how we want to set out what we say around it,” Albon told reporters.
But the Williams driver went even further, outright questioning the FIA’s obsession with monetizing every aspect of the sport.
“Do we think it’s right? Of course not. I don’t think we should be so monetized in every single aspect of what we do. It’s a pure adrenaline sport as well. I don’t think us walking around with the mics all the time is… whatever.”
FIA vs. Drivers: A Growing Tension
This isn’t the first time Ben Sulayem has butted heads with F1’s stars over his conduct crackdown. Max Verstappen—four-time world champion and Red Bull’s dominant force—was penalized at the Singapore Grand Prix last season for his language in a press conference.
Frustrated by what they see as unnecessary policing, drivers collectively pushed back in November, demanding to be treated like adults and even questioning where these heavy fines would be allocated.
Ben Sulayem’s response? “Mind your own business.”
With the tension escalating, the FIA’s latest restrictions could further strain relations between the governing body and the athletes who make Formula 1 the global spectacle it is.
Williams’ New Dynamic: Can Experience Give Them an Edge?
While Albon had plenty to say about the swearing penalties, he was also optimistic about Williams’ 2025 prospects—especially with Carlos Sainz now joining the team after his Ferrari exit.
Sainz, a proven race winner, brings vital experience to a team that finished ninth in the constructors’ standings last year. According to Albon, this could be Williams’ golden ticket to a strong start in the new season.
“There’s definitely an opportunity to capitalize early. I’m hoping we start off in a good place this year… as some drivers are getting up to speed, we can do well,” he added.
Is FIA Killing F1’s Authenticity?
At its core, Formula 1 is an adrenaline-fueled battleground where emotions run high. Policing raw, heat-of-the-moment expressions with sky-high fines and penalties could strip the sport of its authenticity.
As the season opener approaches, one thing is clear: The FIA’s swearing crackdown is not going down well in the paddock. Will the governing body relent, or are drivers in for a season of censored soundbites and financial penalties for simply being human?