Reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has expressed his frustration at what he perceives as too “politically correct” direction in the sport, citing recent FIA regulations as making it “less enjoyable”.
The outspoken Red Bull driver became the center of the issue earlier this season after receiving a penalty for violating Article 12.2.1k of the International Sporting Code. Verstappen was given a one-day community service sentence for swearing while describing his car's setup problems at a press conference.
“The car was f*** » sparks controversy**
The incident that put Verstappen in trouble happened in Baku when he bluntly declared: “I knew the car was f*****”, during a post-session media interaction . The FIA's response sparked an immediate backlash from drivers and fans, with Verstappen responding by giving brief, one-word responses in subsequent media engagements.
“I don't know, man,” Verstappen said when asked later about the penalty. “You always have to be politically correct. It’s always been the case, but with some of the things that have happened recently, it makes it a little less enjoyable.”
FIA cracks down on driver behavior
The FIA's recent crackdown on language and behavior has sparked a wider debate among the paddock. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was also penalized under the same regulations at the Mexican Grand Prix, although he escaped a penalty after issuing a formal apology.
The Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), chaired by Alexander Wurz and represented by directors including George Russell, responded by urging FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem to reconsider the tone and frequency of reprimands directed at drivers. pilots.
The GPDA statement highlighted that over-regulation could erode the authenticity that fans love in F1 personalities, saying: “Drivers are human beings, not robots. Authenticity and emotion are part of what makes sport accessible. »
Verstappen: “You have to be careful what you say”
The two-time world champion has suggested that the current atmosphere in F1 has made him more cautious about how he expresses himself. “Whether it gets worse, I don't know,” admitted Verstappen. “But for me, I prefer not to say too much. I'm just living my life, doing what I have to do on race weekends, but also outside of that. You have to be very careful with what you say.”
Reaction from fans and drivers
The FIA's stricter regulations regarding language and driving have been criticized not only by drivers but also by fans, who argue that Formula 1 risks losing its character by repressing natural emotions too much. Verstappen's growing frustration echoes the feeling that F1's grittiness and authenticity are what sets it apart from other sports.
While Verstappen's dominance continues on the track, his outspoken criticism off it is a reminder of the balance Formula 1 must strike between maintaining professionalism and preserving the raw, unfiltered moments that make it truly exhilarating. Whether Verstappen's words inspire change or lead to further division remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: he is not holding back.
