F1 drivers have united ahead of discussions with the FIA regarding Max Verstappen’s swearing controversy at the Singapore Grand Prix, expressing general discontent with the sport’s governing body. Alex Wurz, the chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), argued that Verstappen’s punishment was overly harsh, and the GPDA plans to reach a unified stance before addressing the FIA.
The incident occurred when Verstappen swore during a press conference before the Marina Bay race, after FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem called for drivers to limit their use of foul language. Verstappen’s punishment was a day of community service, which he protested by largely refusing to engage in subsequent press conferences, though he spoke to journalists outside FIA settings.
After finishing second to McLaren’s Lando Norris in the race, Verstappen voiced his frustration with the FIA’s “silly” stance, even hinting at reconsidering his future in the sport. High-profile drivers like Norris and Lewis Hamilton have publicly supported Verstappen’s position, and Verstappen revealed he had broad backing from other drivers through the GPDA’s WhatsApp group.
Wurz and the drivers plan to further address the issue, citing the example of former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner, who became popular in part due to his frequent use of expletives in the Netflix series Drive to Survive. Wurz noted the inconsistency, pointing out that Steiner’s swearing had been celebrated, while Verstappen was penalized.
Despite Norris also swearing after the Singapore GP, he has not faced any disciplinary action. Wurz emphasized the need for drivers to express themselves authentically, provided it’s not offensive or discriminatory, and said the GPDA would reach a consensus before approaching the FIA.
