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A plea from all 20 current F1 drivers to the FIA to reconsider its recent crackdown on swearing has been made, with the drivers urging the sport’s governing body to treat them as adults.
The drivers’ open letter to the FIA, posted on the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association Instagram account, follows harsh weather conditions during recent races. The drivers faced challenging situations, with veterans like Fernando Alonso describing it as the worst they had ever experienced, and Bernie Ecclestone praising Max Verstappen’s exceptional wet weather driving skills.
Despite this, the FIA, under president Mohammed ben Sulayem, has enforced a zero-tolerance policy on swearing, believing it sets a bad example for younger fans of the sport.
Shortly after Ben Sulayem announced his crackdown on swearing, Verstappen was given community service for swearing during a press conference, and Charles Leclerc was fined for a similar offense.
In their letter, the drivers question other rules introduced by Ben Sulayem, such as restrictions on wearing jewelry and ‘approved’ underwear, and inquire about where the funds from fines are allocated.
“Competitors must respect the referee’s decision in any sport, whether they agree with it or not,” the letter states. “Our members are professional drivers in Formula 1, putting on a show for fans every weekend.”
The letter explains that there is a distinction between swearing intended to offend and casual swearing used to describe situations like bad weather or inanimate objects. The drivers request that the FIA President consider his own tone and language when addressing the drivers.
The GPDA has repeatedly voiced concerns about financial fines in the sport and calls for transparency in how the funds are allocated. They aim to collaborate with all stakeholders to promote the sport for everyone involved.
“Sincerely,
The Directors and Chairman of the GPDA on behalf of the Grand Prix Drivers.
Reports of the FIA president’s response with an expletive are reportedly inaccurate.
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