Toto Wolff, a key figure in the Mercedes Formula 1 team, has implored the FIA to exercise discernment when it comes to swearing in F1, differentiating between cursing out of frustration and cursing “out of emotion”. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the governing body, recently declared his intention to enforce stricter rules against swearing, which could include fines and points deductions.
The newly introduced rules were met with considerable objection from the F1 drivers, including Max Verstappen, who expressed hope that “common sense” would be applied in the enforcement of the swearing restrictions.
Wolff, vocalizing his stance following the morning session of the second day of pre-season testing, emphasized that suppressing the drivers and their emotions was not the objective. He explained his perspective to the press, including Motorsport Week.
Respect, according to Wolff, is paramount – respect for competitors, officials, and team members alike. He drew a clear line between using expletives in the context of one’s own driving experience or out of emotion, as opposed to directing it towards another individual, be it a driver, official, or team member. The latter, he firmly believes, should be unequivocally prohibited.
In situations such as press conferences or interviews, Wolff advocates for a different standard. However, within the confines of the car, provided it does not incite or disrespect others, he would be inclined to let it slide, acknowledging this as his personal stance.
The FIA’s crackdown on explicit language first took aim at Verstappen, who faced community service as a consequence of his language at the Singapore Grand Prix. Verstappen’s expletives were directed at the performance of his car, a move that Wolff believes should not have warranted the FIA’s reprimand.
Nonetheless, Wolff acknowledges the role and responsibility of F1 to uphold a higher standard, setting it apart from other “mainstream” sports. He expressed his distaste for ill-chosen words, reminding all involved that they are role models.
In Wolff’s eyes, F1 is a gentleman’s sport, characterized by high tech and sophistication. He expressed his firm belief that no one should be swearing at officials, supporting the FIA’s need to safeguard this standard.
This issue of swearing in F1 continues to be a topic of debate, with the hope that a balance between freedom of expression and respect for the sport can be found.