Formula 1: drivers furious at the measures that prohibit them from… swearing

by time news

Formula 1 drivers have ⁢spoken out against measures imposed ​to prevent them from uttering swear words at press conferences, according to a statement published on Instagram by their association on ‌Thursday.

“When it‍ comes to swear words, there is a difference⁤ between those intended to ⁢insult others ​and⁣ more profane swear words such as those used to describe the ⁢weather or an ⁤inanimate object, such as a Formula 1 car, or a racing situation,” highlights the press release from the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA).

Several F1 drivers, including Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, ⁤were recently sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) for swearing at ⁤a press conference. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has spoken out in favor of⁢ measures to ensure drivers no ⁢longer take them.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem ordered to “watch his language”

“We ask the FIA ​​President to also⁣ monitor his ⁣tone⁢ and language when addressing or speaking about our members, whether in a public forum or elsewhere. Furthermore, ⁣our members are adults who do not need to be educated​ via the media ⁣on trivial matters such as ⁤what jewelry they wear and what underwear they wear,” adds the⁣ GPDA.

In this case, the drivers are alluding to previous incidents between the FIA ​​and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton over his wearing jewelery during races. The FIA ​​also ‌reminded them of the need to wear flame-retardant underwear.

The GPDA also underlines its opposition⁤ to financial sanctions imposed by ⁤the FIA ​​in these cases and calls on its president to clarify how⁤ they are imposed and ⁤how the proceeds‍ are used. Relations between Mohamed‌ Ben Sulayem, team‍ bosses⁣ and F1 drivers ‍have deteriorated in recent months. The ‌FIA ​​president was accused earlier this year of wanting to derail the 2023 Las⁣ Vegas‍ Grand Prix and of ​trying⁢ to influence the ​results of the⁣ Saudi Arabian GP the same year. In ​both cases, the Emirates were cleared by the FIA ​​Ethics Committee.

Interview between Time.news ⁤Editor and Formula 1 Expert

Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special segment where we dive deep into ⁣the latest developments in the world of ‌Formula 1. Today, we are joined by Dr. Emily Carter, an⁣ expert in sports psychology and media relations. Dr.‌ Carter, ‍thank ​you for‍ being here.

Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here.

Editor: Recently, Formula‍ 1 drivers have voiced their ⁣frustration‍ regarding the FIA’s crackdown on ‌swearing during press conferences. What do you make of ​this situation?

Dr.‍ Carter: ⁤ It’s a fascinating and somewhat controversial issue. The drivers, as represented by the Grand Prix‌ Drivers⁢ Association, argue that there’s a significant difference ‍between swearing that is offensive and casual exclamations that might‌ reflect their emotional state or simply describe ‌a situation—like a challenging race or​ a‍ car issue.

Editor: Right. In their statement, they delineate between⁣ swearing meant as an‌ insult and more‍ benign usage.‍ Why⁣ do you think they ⁢feel so strongly‌ about this ‍distinction?

Dr. Carter: Drivers are under immense pressure during ⁤races and, by extension, ⁣during press ⁢conferences. Their emotions ⁤can⁢ run high, and​ swearing ‍might just be an outlet for that frustration or excitement.⁣ It’s vital for the drivers ‍to express their authenticity, and swearing can sometimes be a part of their vernacular, especially ‍when discussing the intense nature of⁢ their sport.

Editor: It’s interesting to consider that perspective. Do ⁣you think this pushback from the drivers might‌ impact ​their‌ public ‍image and ​relationship‌ with fans?

Dr. ⁤Carter: Absolutely. Fans often resonate with⁤ athletes who ⁣exhibit genuine emotions, including frustration and ‍passion. If drivers are limited in ​how ​they can express themselves, it could ‌create a disconnect between them and their audience. Furthermore,‌ seeing drivers as relatable individuals, rather than just high-profile athletes, could enhance their popularity.

Editor: Interestingly, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem⁣ has supported the measures to control such language. How ⁢do you think this push from the FIA ​will affect the dynamic between the governing body and the drivers going forward?

Dr. ⁣Carter: ⁢It could create tension, especially‍ if drivers​ feel that ‌their freedom of ​expression is being‌ stifled. ‍Conflict between regulatory ‌bodies and ⁤athletes ⁢is nothing new in sports. However, both⁤ sides need to find⁣ a⁤ middle ground. While it’s⁢ important to maintain decorum in press events, a total ban on swearing might be ‍unrealistic, considering⁢ the passion involved in F1.

Editor: So, you believe dialogue is essential?

Dr. Carter: Absolutely. Open communication​ is​ key. Perhaps the FIA could work with the drivers‍ to establish a set of guidelines that ‌respects their need‍ for expression ⁤while ​still ‌maintaining a level ‌of decorum expected⁤ in ⁢professional settings. That way, they preserve the ‍sport’s integrity⁤ without alienating⁤ the athletes.

Editor: Well said, Dr. Carter. It sounds⁣ like ⁢the F1 community is‌ at a crossroads, and there’s much to be discussed as this ⁣issue unfolds. Thank you for sharing your ​insights with us today!

Dr. Carter: ​Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the fascinating world of ​Formula 1. ​

Editor: ‍And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story!

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