Max Verstappen’s recent outbursts have grabbed the attention of the F1 authorities.
- During the Hungarian Grand Prix, Verstappen’s heated language over team radio drew criticism.
- The FIA has now reminded teams to keep drivers’ language in check during races.
- F1’s Chief, Stefano Domenicali, emphasized the importance of clean communication for young fans.
- Lewis Hamilton commented on the need for champions to lead by example.
Max Verstappen, known for his fiery determination, seemed to cross a line at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Over the 70 laps, Verstappen let loose a series of explicit remarks, notably during tense exchanges with his race engineer. Frustrations boiled over as Verstappen was instructed to relinquish a position to Lando Norris, suffered strategic setbacks during pit stops, and collided with rival Lewis Hamilton, an incident Verstappen blamed on Hamilton.
“No mate, don’t give me that s***,” Verstappen snapped over the radio, expressing his displeasure with the strategy provided by his team. Despite his understandable frustration, the language used was deemed inappropriate by many, including the FIA, leading to a stern reminder for teams to monitor their drivers’ radio communications more closely.
Stefano Domenicali, speaking during an FIA commission meeting in London, pointed out that while Formula 1 has measures to filter offensive language, it is still crucial for drivers to remember their roles as public figures and role models. This is especially important given the sport’s growing young fan base. In response, Domenicali issued a firm reminder that drivers should exhibit behavior befitting their status.
Adding to the dialogue was Lewis Hamilton, who weighed in on Verstappen’s behavior. Hamilton, a seasoned champion himself, suggested that Verstappen should embody the qualities expected of a world champion. “You have to be a team leader, a team member,” Hamilton remarked, urging Verstappen to remember his responsibility towards his team and the sport.
While Verstappen’s passion for racing is undeniable, his choice of words has sparked a broader conversation about the conduct expected from athletes of his caliber. Whether this intervention by the FIA will lead to a lasting change remains to be seen.
The FIA’s stand on maintaining professionalism highlights the growing accountability in F1.
