Guenther Steiner insists too late for FIA to apologize to Max Verstappen over swear ban saga

Gunther Steiner has opined that the FIA apologizing to Max Verstappen might demonstrate weak leadership and uncertainty in its rules.


Guenther Steiner insists too late for FIA to apologize to Max Verstappen over swear ban saga

Gunther Steiner and Max Verstappen (images via IMAGO)

The issue of drivers swearing over team radios gained attention at the Singapore GP. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem had even called for stricter rules regarding this behavior.

Max Verstappen used colorful language during a press conference to describe his car’s condition. As a result, he faced punishment that included community service. He protested it by remaining silent during subsequent press conferences.

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The controversy over Max Verstappen‘s swearing at the Singapore GP has sparked debate, with some supporting him and others agreeing with the penalty. As drivers prepare to meet the FIA in Austin, the key question is whether stewards will reconsider or maintain their decision.

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Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner said that it was too late for the FIA to apologize. The 59-year-old asserted that such actions would demonstrate weak leadership and uncertainty in its rules. He suggested that the stewards should have a conversation with Verstappen and try to find an agreement on the issue.

I think it’s too late now to apologize. Then you can clearly see that there is no direction. I think they should sit down with him (Verstappen) and agree on something, and I don’t know what Max is willing to agree on. I don’t know that. I respect Max a lot and he will have a point, and he will not be completely stubborn at everything, if something sensibly is mentioned.

Gunther Steiner told GPblog.com

Gunther Steiner claims the drama created over swearing was much worse than the swear words

Gunther Steiner said that the excessive focus has blown the swearing incident out of proportion. He opined that by continuously highlighting the issue, the media and public have given it more attention than the actual swear words used during the press conference.

Gunther Steiner speaking
Gunther Steiner (via IMAGO)

Steiner said that the overexposure has worsened the situation, with discussions now extending far beyond the initial remarks. He suggested that the swear words haven’t impacted children as much as the ongoing controversies surrounding them.

What did we create? We created a worse situation than the one swearing in the press conference. Now everybody talks about [it]. And do you think children don’t listen to that rumours.

Gunther Steiner expressed

Steiner believes the issue was being dragged out and damaging the sport’s image. He stated that Formula 1 was being shown in a bad light by these controversies and that it also reflected poorly on the legacy the sport has built over the years.