F1 Drivers Ask FIA for Adult Treatment on Rules and Fines
F1 drivers are asking the FIA for adult treatment and greater respect following recent fines for swearing, which they argue were uncalled for. In an open letter, the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) expressed dissatisfaction with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s tone and strict enforcement on language, fines, and personal choices.
The GPDA noted a distinction between swearing intended as an insult and casual swearing that simply reflects drivers’ frustration. They urged Ben Sulayem to consider his own tone when addressing drivers, stressing that F1 competitors do not need reminders about trivial matters like wearing jewelry or specific undergarments.
Drivers Demand Transparency on Fines
The GPDA’s call for adult treatment from the FIA includes concerns over fines imposed on drivers, which they feel harm the sport’s image. In the letter signed by the GPDA’s directors, including Chairman Alex Wurz and Mercedes’ George Russell, drivers argued that monetary fines are inappropriate for F1. They requested the FIA to clarify how fine money is used, as repeated inquiries have gone unanswered.
This push for adult treatment and transparency comes after recent fines against Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. Verstappen was penalized in Singapore for swearing about his car, while Leclerc was fined at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix for swearing in a post-race interview. The GPDA believes these fines were excessive and unnecessary.
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Concerns Over FIA Language Policies
In their request for adult treatment from FIA, drivers also highlighted concerns over language restrictions. Lewis Hamilton criticized Ben Sulayem’s comments on swearing, describing them as stereotypical and racially insensitive. Drivers believe that occasional swearing, often bleeped out, adds to the excitement of the sport by revealing genuine emotions under pressure.
This letter from the GPDA represents the first collective public statement from drivers since 2017, underscoring their frustration with the FIA’s handling of driver conduct. The GPDA encourages a collaborative approach, urging all F1 stakeholders to join discussions on policies that support the sport’s growth.
F1 Drivers Seek Constructive Dialogue
The GPDA has made it clear they seek constructive dialogue with FIA to address these concerns and create a respectful environment. The association hopes for reforms that recognize drivers as adults, emphasizing that F1 should foster open dialogue and cooperation to benefit everyone involved.
