George Russell has openly criticized the FIA’s decision to back down on its strict stance against driver swearing. The British driver called the move “ridiculous” and suggested it was part of a strategy by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to gain support ahead of his re-election bid in December. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton described the FIA’s handling of the situation as “a mess.”
On Wednesday, the FIA announced a relaxation of the penalties for swearing by drivers. The decision marks a sharp reversal from the governing body’s previous approach, which had been enforced since last September. Ben Sulayem had announced the new rules before the Singapore Grand Prix last year, which included fines and possible bans for drivers caught swearing. However, as the Imola Grand Prix approaches, the FIA has significantly reduced the fines and removed the possibility of a ban.
Russell, who also serves as a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), dismissed the entire episode as “crazy” and “farcical.” He expressed his disbelief at the FIA’s about-face, emphasizing that the initial approach was unnecessary. “We shouldn’t even be having this conversation,” he added, questioning why the FIA had implemented such rules in the first place.
The controversy began when Max Verstappen was punished for swearing during an FIA press conference last September. The GPDA responded with an open letter to the FIA, calling for dialogue and requesting to be treated like adults. Russell revealed that, since then, the GPDA had received “zero” communication from the governing body.
Russell also speculated that the timing of the decision was linked to Ben Sulayem’s re-election campaign. He pointed out that the lack of communication and the sudden backtrack suggested a strategic motive. “You just wonder whether it’s all a bit strategic,” Russell said.
Lewis Hamilton supported Russell’s criticism, describing the situation as “a mess” and calling for change within the FIA. Meanwhile, Carlo Sainz Sr., the father of F1 driver Carlos Sainz, is considering running against Ben Sulayem for the presidency. Russell expressed support for Sainz Sr., believing he would make a “great” candidate and dismissing concerns over a potential conflict of interest due to his son’s involvement in F1.
Max Verstappen also backed the idea of Sainz Sr. running for FIA president, calling him “very well respected” and adding that his professionalism would allow him to separate any potential conflicts. Verstappen’s support further solidifies the notion that the sport may be ready for change in its leadership.
Related topics
- Win a Surf Trip: Submit Your Best Barrel
- Patagonia’s Bold Move to Prioritize the Planet
- Ben Gravy Surfs New Jersey’s $10 Million Wave Pool