Max Verstappen protests against FIA penalizing him for swearing - “No comments”

Max Verstappen found a unique way to protest against the FIA's decision to punish him for using expletives during the Singapore Grand Prix. The F1 governing body penalized the Red Bull driver after he used swear words during Thursday's pre-race press conference, and now, Verstappen has used the "no comment" tactic to show his disapproval.

Verstappen took part in the post-qualifying press conference on Saturday after he qualified in P2 for Sunday's race at the Marina Bay Circuit. There he was asked to speak about the penalty he received and how his qualifying went.

After some initial two-worded answers, the Dutchman offered "no comment" following the FIA's crackdown on him. The FIA ordered Verstappen to carry out "some work of public interest," after the three-time world champion swore in the press conference room on Thursday.

This has come after Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed his displeasure at profanities used by drivers on team radio messages. The FIA President stated that drivers should differentiate themselves from rappers, and use their words cautiously.

This view was not shared by a number of drivers, including Max Verstappen, and Sergio Perez. They were of the opinion that the FIA should eliminate the need to broadcast live radios instead of asking drivers to use their words cautiously.

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What did the FIA say about Max Verstappen's conduct?

A group of journalists surround Max Verstappen after Singapore GP Qualifying. Source: Getty Images

Following Max Verstappen's use of expletives during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix media day, the FIA released a verdict on the Red Bull driver. It released a statement criticizing the Dutchman's choice of language.

“The stewards noted that the language was not directed at anyone or any group. When summoned to the Stewards the driver explained that the word used is ordinary in speech as he learned it, English not being his native language."

"While the stewards accept that this may be true, it is important for role models to learn to be mindful when speaking in public forums, in particular when not under any particular pressure. Verstappen apologized for his behaviour," the statement read.

Verstappen is all set to start the Singapore Grand Prix from P2 on Sunday. He will start his title defense ahead of Lewis Hamilton and behind Lando Norris.