Debate: Does Max Verstappen deserve community service for swearing?
F1 News
The FIA stewards were left unimpressed on Thursday after Max Verstappen swore during Thursday's press conference. During his interview, the Dutchman used the word 'f**k'. As a result, the Dutchman has been given community service.
The FIA's president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is on a mission to reduce the use of swearing in Formula 1. He has reminded drivers that they act as role models, and has expressed his wishes for swearing in on-board radios to be limited. On Thursday, many drivers reacted to the news, with Verstappen questioning why they should be treated like this, and that the broadcasters have a responsibility. On the flip side, Lewis Hamilton, expressed that he does agree with the decision, but criticised Sulayem's statement, suggesting it had 'racial elements' to it.
What happened to Verstappen?
After FP1, Verstappen was sent to the stewards where he was awarded community service as a punishment for his use of foul language. "The Stewards reviewed the transcript of the FIA Thursday Driver Press Conference in Singapore and Max Verstappen, driver of car 1, used language to describe his car at the Event in Azerbaijan which is generally considered "coarse, rude" or may "cause offense" and is not considered suitable for broadcast. This is "Misconduct" as defined in Art 20 of the International Sporting Code, and is a breach of Art 12.2.1.k."
With the FIA determined to make changes, we could see more drivers being penalised in the future for their use of language. What do you think, do you agree with the FIA's decision to award the three-time world champion community service? Respond to the poll below and join the discussion in the comments!