Has Max Verstappen mended relations with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem?

Max Verstappen had a public fallout with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem over swearing in the paddock earlier this year.

Has Max Verstappen mended relations with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem?

Max Verstappen and Mohammed Ben Sulayem (images via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen had a dramatic season on and off-track in 2024. While the Dutch driver battled it out against Lando Norris for the title, he had a fallout with the FIA. However, it seems that the Red Bull driver is finally coming to terms with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Tensions arose between Verstappen and the sports governing body earlier this year after the 27-year-old used a swear word in a press conference. The four-time world champion was handed community service as a penalty for this incident.

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Moreover, Mohammed Ben Sulayem essentially attacked Max Verstappen for swearing during press conferences and team radio. Though, things seemed to have subsided after the 2024 FIA gala held in Rwanda.

Max Verstappen and Mohammed Ben Sulayem had a positive outing in Rwanda

Max Verstappen was officially given the Drivers’ trophy at the annual FIA gala. The Dutch driver then completed his community service commitments by taking part in a junior driver event held by the Rwanda Automobile Club (RAC).

Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Max Verstappen in Rwanda (via FIA/X)
Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Max Verstappen in Rwanda (via FIA/X)

The Red Bull driver had no sign of discontent while taking part in the program. Max Verstappen was excited to meet the young talent of the African nation. The FIA even posted a picture of the Dutch driver during his interactions on X.

Following the event, Mohammed Ben Sulayem applauded the reigning world champion for fulfilling his duties. The two were spotted together and seemed to be finally back on talking terms. Previously, Verstappen had resorted to one-word responses in press conferences in a form of protest against the FIA.

One could argue that this friendly relationship might’ve been staged to prevent any more controversies. However, both Max Verstappen and Mohammed Ben Sulayem have a reputation for being blunt and not filtering their words. It is likely that that the two agreed to set aside their differences at least till the start of the 2025 season. Fans could expect to see a quiet winter break as Verstappen takes some much needed time off with his friends and family.