The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) has introduced stricter sanctions for Formula One drivers involving swearing or other sporting violations. The new guidelines, which were tightened last year at the start of 2024, have been further reinforced after complaints from drivers, including four-time world champion Max Verstappen.
Misconduct has been defined by the FIA as using offensive, insulting, coarse, rude, or abusive language, gestures, or signs. Penalties are in the form of fines from €10,000 to €15,000 for a first offense, €20,000 to €30,000 for a repeat offense, and €30,000 to €45,000 for further offenses. For the drivers of Formula One, the above amounts are multiplied by four, making the fines much more severe.
Last season, Verstappen was ordered to perform community service for swearing in a press conference, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was fined €10,000 for a similar offense. The new rules have been met with resistance from drivers, who argue that there is a difference between casual swearing and words intended to insult others.
The Formula One season starts with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, and the WRC (World Rally Championship) begins with the Monte Carlo Rally on January 23.
