GPDA President labels Max Verstappen’s swearing penalty ‘too severe’ amidst growing resentment towards FIA

GPDA president Alexander Wurz defended Max Verstappen over his recent swearing drama with the FIA, labeling it as too severe.

GPDA President labels Max Verstappen’s swearing penalty ‘too severe’ amidst growing resentment towards FIA

Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen’s swearing controversy has been receiving immense attention, with some criticizing the Dutchman while others have shown their support. GPDA chairman Alexander Wurz defended Verstappen, expressing his views on the use of strong language in high-pressure situations. Wurz acknowledged that while such language may not be ideal, it can reflect the intense emotions drivers experience on the track.

Alexander Wurz believes the penalty given to Max Verstappen for his language was too harsh. He even considered discussing the matter with the FIA. Wurz reckoned that drivers should be allowed to express themselves freely, especially in stressful situations, as long as it doesn’t cross the line into personal offense or discrimination.

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Frustrating moments may arise when the car misbehaves during a race, causing drivers to feel irritated. So, drivers often swear, but their frustration is directed at the situation and not at anyone personally.

Drivers must be allowed to express themselves authentically in some cases. Of course, it shouldn't be personally offensive or discriminatory.
Alexander Wurz told Formule1.nl

Wurz stated that the drivers have reached a level of experience where they understand when swearing is appropriate. The same applies to the FIA, as they should have recognized that such a punishment wasn’t necessary. The 50-year-old felt the punishment given to Verstappen was not right, labeling it as severe. Considering the drivers’ progress, Wurz believed a lighter penalty would have been more reasonable and fair.

They've all come that far by now. For me personally, the penalty is too severe.
Alexander Wurz added.

Alexander Wurz aims to resolve the ‘swearing ban’ issue with the FIA behind closed doors

Alexander Wurz planned to work with all the drivers on the grid to provide a united response to the FIA on the recent swearing controversy. Many drivers including Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri weren’t pleased with the ban. Wurz emphasized that discussions about such issues usually happen internally among the drivers first. He hoped that they could address this problem with the FIA privately, without public attention. He believed, that by working together they could find a solution that everyone agrees on.

Alexander Wurz
Alexander Wurz
Normally we discuss these matters internally and I also hope that behind closed doors we can resolve this issue with the FIA.
Alexander Wurz stated.

The swearing controversy that sparked drama in the paddock began when Verstappen discussed his car’s condition during the Baku race. The Dutchman remarked that his punishment for swearing in an FIA press conference has made him reconsider his Formula 1 future. Additionally, the FIA president will soon be answerable for addressing such issues between drivers and the governing body.