ax Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 world champion, has made it clear that he intends to maintain his protest against the FIA following a controversial penalty. The incident, which took place at the Singapore Grand Prix, saw Verstappen punished for using inappropriate language during a live press conference. As a result, he was handed a community service sanction. Rather than accepting the ruling quietly, Verstappen chose to hold his own press briefings, delivering only brief responses at the official FIA sessions he was required to attend.
At the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Verstappen revealed that he had not yet received specific details about the punishment from the FIA. Despite this, he has remained unbothered by the situation, saying, “I haven’t heard anything from the FIA, so nothing changes for me.” He also hinted that he plans to continue organizing his own media sessions where he can speak more freely, adding that he doesn’t mind talking less if required by the FIA.
The tension between Verstappen and the FIA has caught the attention of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA). George Russell, a prominent figure within the association, mentioned that the GPDA is seeking a meeting with the FIA to discuss the matter further. Verstappen himself expressed openness to having a conversation with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem but made it clear that he is not the one initiating contact. For Verstappen, this issue is simply a part of life, and he feels no need to make a bigger deal out of it than necessary.
Verstappen’s critical stance raises questions about the nature of the punishment. He argued that while swearing is generally frowned upon, the extent of the reaction seemed excessive, especially given the context. Referring to public concerns that children may have seen the press conference, Verstappen dismissed such worries, pointing out that most young children are unlikely to be tuning in to live Formula 1 press conferences. He emphasized that the language used in schools is often much harsher, and the fuss being made over his choice of words seemed disproportionate.
In the broader conversation, Verstappen touched on the increasing tendency of society to blow things out of proportion. For him, the focus on this minor incident is unnecessary. His view is simple—he prefers to live his life as he sees fit, and if he disagrees with something, he won’t hesitate to express his opinion. With a busy schedule ahead, it’s clear that Verstappen won’t be letting this issue distract him from his goals o
n the track.