F1 News: Racing star WARNS FIA on Max Verstappen swearing reaction

Max Verstappen downbeat graphic — Photo: © IMAGO

F1 News & Gossip

Racing star WARNS FIA on Verstappen swearing reaction

Max Verstappen received criticism last season regarding his use of bad language

Kevin McKenna

Wednesday 29 January 2025 10:57

An ex-Formula 1 star has delivered his verdict on the treatment of defending world champion Max Verstappen.

The Dutchman celebrated a fourth consecutive title victory in 2024, overcoming a drastic mid-season slump which saw him go 10 grands prix without a win.

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It was an uncharacteristically turbulent campaign for the Red Bull star, who faced speculation over his future as well as criticism over his behaviour on the track, most notably from fellow drivers Lando Norris and George Russell.

Verstappen also fell foul of the sport's governing body, who hit him with a bizarre punishment - the F1 equivalent of community service - following his use of bad language in a press conference in response to the FIA's clampdown on driver swearing.

The incident prompted the 27-year-old to threaten quitting the sport for good as his frustrations both on and off the track boiled over.

George Russell criticised Max Verstappen over his on-track behaviour in 2024

Verstappen was hit with an unusual FIA punishment back in September for swearing

Montoya: Verstappen criticism unwarranted

However, former McLaren and Williams driver Juan Pablo Montoya believes the abuse Verstappen received from within certain quarters as a result of his language was unfair.

Speaking to Casino Apps, the Columbian cast doubt over whether some of his main rivals would get the same treatment for similar offences.

“Charles Leclerc did the same thing [at the Mexican Grand Prix]," Montoya said. "I understand because of the young audience F1 has, but nowadays they all hear it and use it - in school, in kindergarten.

“There's a line you can draw for everything, but these press conferences, they're not live. If it happened live then I would understand it, as you're in front of millions of people.