Max Verstappen has advised FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to discuss developments within Formula 1 ‘behind the scenes’ in the future. Sulayem has been under scrutiny in recent months after he opposed the use of profanity by drivers. Following Sulayem’s latest comments about a possible return of the V10 engine, Verstappen hopes that the president will keep a lower profile in the future.
The issue of drivers swearing came to the fore last season when the FIA president expressed his displeasure at tirades over the team radio. “We are not rappers,” he stated irritably. Later, Max Verstappen was given a community service order for using the word ‘fucked’ during an official press moment. Charles Leclerc received a fine of ten thousand euros for a similar offence. For the upcoming season, the FIA has updated the International Sporting Code.
At Viaplay, they believe they have found a way to circumvent the FIA’s penalties. “Have you practiced swearing in Limburgish?” presenter Amber Brantsen asked during an event at the Zandvoort circuit. “I did that often enough when I was karting,” Max Verstappen replied with a laugh. “In the end, these are all very silly things that you don’t want to be dealing with,” he continued in a serious tone.
‘Don’t Make So Many Claims’
The Dutch champion was then asked about one of the latest statements from FIA chairman Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The Emirati is reportedly considering a return to the famed V10 engines in the future, provided they can run on sustainable fuels. Many critics claimed that this was a way for Sulayem to please Formula 1 fans and improve his image. In December, the Emirati hopes to run for re-election as chairman.
“Of course, I think that’s a very nice idea, but first we need to see if something like that is even possible,” Verstappen said about a possible return of the V10. “I think it’s better not to make so many claims. It’s better to discuss these kinds of things behind the scenes.”
