Ex-F1 driver blames rebellious Max Verstappen for ‘blowing up’ FIA swear ban saga
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert defends the penalty given to Max Verstappen for swearing in the official FIA press conference.
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Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)
The Max Verstappen swearing drama has drawn considerable attention, with drivers, pundits, and former drivers sharing their opinions. Some defended Verstappen, stating the penalty for his outburst was harsh. Others supported the punishment, agreeing with the FIA’s decision. Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert belongs to the latter group, backing the penalty on Verstappen.
Max Verstappen was called to the stewards at the Singapore GP for allegedly breaking the International Sporting Code after swearing in Thursday’s press conference. This happened just hours after FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem had called for less swearing by drivers. Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has worked closely with the FIA serving as a race steward in multiple races.
Herbert was also involved in Verstappen’s swearing incident at the 2024 Singapore GP. He clarified that asking drivers not to swear isn’t about restricting their personalities. He believes it’s a reasonable request for drivers to avoid offensive language, and most drivers already manage not to swear during public appearances.
Some journalists have said the sport is trying to make robots out of the drivers. That’s not the case. You are just asking them not to swear, which I think is the right thing. Most drivers don’t swear.
Johnny Herbert told Casino Hawks
Further, Herbert explained that the situation escalated when Verstappen attended the press conference and responded to questions with just one-word answers. Frustrated, the Dutchman then held his own informal press conference in the paddock. This reaction highlighted his dissatisfaction with the harsh penalty and the stewards’ decision. The 26-year-old, with the group of drivers, also reached out to GPDA aiming to discuss concerns about the matter.
It all blew up afterwards because he went to the press conference and gave one-word answers then held his own impromptu press conference outside in the paddock.
Johnny Herbert stated.
Johnny Herbert claims he loves to see the ‘honest’ rebellious side of Max Verstappen
After receiving the penalty, Verstappen was deeply disappointed with the stewards’ decision. His rival, Lewis Hamilton, also disagreed and advised him to avoid community service. This frustration led Verstappen to give short, one-word replies in the post-race interviews. Johnny Herbert appreciated Verstappen’s rebellious attitude, calling it one of his most honest displays, which the Briton admired.
That showed Max’s rebellious streak. I love that side of him, it is what makes Max, Max, his honest and outspoken character.
Johnny Herbert explained.
Certainly, The swearing drama has caused significant discussion about maintaining professionalism in the sport. But as suggested by Martin Brundle that the drama is just ‘storm in a teacup‘ suggesting that a minor incident has been exaggerated. He recognized that swearing can happen in high-pressure situations, as it does for many drivers. However, he emphasized that drivers should avoid using profanity unnecessarily.
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Gaurang Kadam
(535 Articles Published)