The F1 Drivers’ Association has shown its support for Max Verstappen, sanctioned for an expletive dropped in an interview.
Formula 1 drivers say it is unfair that Max Verstappen was punished for his foul language during a press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix. “We unanimously agree” said Mercedes driver George Russell, who is director of the Grand Prix Driver’s Association, the GDPA, which looks after the interests of F1 drivers.
“Next week we will probably present something formal together to the motorsport federation, the FIA. We don’t want to suppress the emotions that drivers show, but of course we must remain aware of the impact of our words“, continued the Briton.
Verstappen used the word “fucked” during the previous GP in Singapore when answering questions from journalists about the Red Bull’s lackluster performance. The three-time world champion was fined and commissioners decided he must carry out community service.
According to the stewards, the 26-year-old Red Bull driver violated sports driving rules. Normally, foul language results in a fine, but as Verstappen did not insult anyone, the financial penalty was waived.
Max Verstappen called the sanction ridiculous and kept his statements to a minimum during an official press conference.
“I’m always open to discussion, but at the moment I don’t feel the need to contact them myself“, he responded about a contact with FIA leaders to questions from journalists on the sidelines of Sunday’s US GP in Austin. “I live my life and I move forward, nothing will change. I’m not aggressive, but if I don’t agree with something, I say so. That’s all“.
Max Verstappen
F1
