Max Verstappen has been ordered to complete work of public interest after using inappropriate language during the FIA Thursday driver press conference ahead of the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix.
The Red Bull driver, 26, was summoned by the stewards after describing his car’s setup in Azerbaijan as “f—ed” while responding to a question about differing setups between him and teammate Sergio Perez.
Verstappen’s comments were deemed a breach of Article 12.2.1.k of the FIA international sporting code, which addresses “misconduct” in language used at public forums.
Competitors have the right to appeal certain stewards’ decisions in accordance with article 15 of the FIA international sporting code.
The stewards acknowledged that the language was not directed at any individual or group but emphasized the importance of maintaining appropriate standards of speech for public figures.
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Verstappen apologized, and gave an explanation that English is not his native language, but the stewards ruled that being a high-profile figure in motorsport carries the responsibility to uphold the FIA’s regulations.
In their decision, the stewards opted not to impose a fine but instead mandated that Verstappen undertake public service work, coordinated by the FIA. It is expected to be similar to the 2019 community service Verstappen completed after an off-track altercation with Esteban Ocon at the Brazilian Grand Prix. During that punishment, Verstappen attended a Formula E race in Morocco, shadowing stewards to understand their decision-making process.
The specific details of his upcoming work have yet to be defined, but it will likely involve similar duties with an FIA championship or club.
The ruling follows a similar incident in Las Vegas in 2023, where Mercedes and Ferrari team principals, Toto Wolff and Fred Vasseur, were issued formal warnings for inappropriate language during a press conference.
Verstappen heads into the Singapore Grand Prix 59 points ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris. The Dutchman, however, is winless in his last seven races as Red Bull’s performance has dipped.
(Clive Rose – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images)
