The conflict between drivers and FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem over the use of inappropriate language could be close to being resolved. Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, Ben Sulayem posted on Instagram that, after receiving “constructive feedback” from drivers around the world, he is considering making “improvements” to the document governing penalties for various offenses, including the use of foul language.
Since last year, Ben Sulayem has sought to toughen penalties for the use of foul language, allowing higher fines and suspensions for repeat offenders, which has sparked controversy in the motorsport world.
Drivers call for more flexibility
Several drivers have called for a more lenient approach to the use of foul language, especially in high-pressure situations such as radio communications during a race. They argue that sometimes swearing or insults are expressions of personal frustration or comments about their own cars, not attacks on other people.
Max Verstappen, a world champion, pointed out that in other sports, athletes’ comments are not constantly recorded, and that television broadcasts could avoid airing such language. “I think this is more of a media problem than a driver problem,” he commented last year.
Ben Sulayem considers adjustments to penalties
In his publication, Ben Sulayem stressed that the rules can be improved. “Humans make the rules and humans can improve them,” he wrote. He also stressed that the principle of continuous improvement is fundamental to the FIA. However, it appears that the changes will focus on how penalties are applied, rather than modifying the rules themselves.
An example of this flexibility was given recently when Carlos Sainz was not fined for using an expletive at a press conference, while protesting another sanction received for being late for a national anthem.
A possible easing of tensions between drivers and the FIA
Ben Sulayem’s four years at the helm of the FIA have been marked by clashes with drivers and senior officials. A change in policy on the use of inappropriate language could reduce tensions ahead of a possible re-election later this year.
The debate over the use of swear words in Formula 1 remains a sensitive issue, but the proposed adjustments could mark a step towards a more harmonious relationship between the FIA and drivers, keeping the focus on the sport and not on sanctions.
