FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem jokes fans expected Max Verstappen to clean toilets over swearing saga
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed that some expected Max Verstappen will need to do absurd activities for community service.
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Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)
Max Verstappen had a public fallout with the FIA in 2024. The Dutch driver was penalized for swearing in a press conference, violating the sports governing body’s latest policy in banning offensive words. Now, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has stated that some expected rather harsh outcome for Verstappen’s behavior.
The reigning world champion was handed community service as punishment for swearing. Max Verstappen fulfilled this penalty during the winter break when he went to Rwanda for a grassroots development event ahead of the FIA prize gala for the 2024 season.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed that when Max Verstappen was given the penalty, some thought that the Red Bull driver will be forced to clean toilets. The FIA President went on to claim that he sees drivers as his ‘children.’ Though, the sports governing body has issued even stricter rules for the upcoming season.
I see them as my children. Look at Verstappen and his punishment with community service, people thought that the president of the FIA was going to send him to clean the toilets.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem told Diario AS
Mohammed Ben Sulayem suggested Max Verstappen to inspire young talent
Before the end of the 2024 season, Ben Sulayem had a conversation with Max Verstappen at the Qatar GP. The 63-year-old insisted that the Red Bull star should serve as an inspiration for young boys and girls who aspire to become racing drivers. He recalled the wholesome moments Verstappen spent with the children at Rwanda during community service.
I spoke to him in Qatar, he was nervous, I suggested that he inspire girls and boys and he thought it was very good. He went to Rwanda [to serve his punishment], he hugged them, it was very good for them.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem added
Certainly, the reigning world champion did not regret his appearance in Rwanda despite the controversial events which preceded it. However, this will not change the dynamics between Max Verstappen and the FIA as the Dutch driver faces the challenge of abiding by the latest rulings of the sports governing body.
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Armaan Agarwal
(2399 Articles Published)