George Russell has backed up Max Verstappen in his ongoing debate (Image: Getty)
has emphasized the need for ‘raw emotion’ from F1 drivers, suggesting that while the language in press conferences should be clean, all athletes should be able to carry themselves however they like on the radio during races.
The Brit’s comments arrive following a dramatic weekend at the Singapore Grand Prix where driver language dominated the headlines.
Heading into the race, FIA president conducted a controversial interview, in which he lambasted the use of swear words and offensive comments on the radio.
Then, after swore with a slip of the tongue in Thursday’s press conference, the reigning world champion was punished with community service.
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This verdict caused even more controversy and left the Dutchman furious, leading to a protest in the post-qualifying media session.
Offering his thoughts on the driver swearing debate, Russell said: “We definitely don’t want to take that raw emotion away from the drivers. I think that’s key in our sport.
“Maybe, in a press conference, there’s merit in saying we need to keep our words clean. But for sure, on the radio, you want to be able to express yourself as you desire.”
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Max Verstappen was punished by the FIA at the Singapore Grand Prix (Image: Getty)
As the main driver representative in the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, Russell will play a pivotal role in any future talks about driver language. Chairman Alex Wurz confirmed after the Singapore GP that discussions will take place in private as the grid considers its next steps.
“How many lifetime community services would Guenther Steiner have to serve for using the F-word?” Wurz protested in an interview with Formel1.de. “He was glorified for using the F-word.
broadcasts this worldwide, no problem. But then to suddenly change like that? [The choice of words] is not my personal taste as a driver.
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“As GPDA chairman, I have to officially say that we will, of course, discuss it internally, first reach a full consensus, and then we will consider whether and in what form we will talk to the FIA and the president.”
Russell isn’t the only driver in support of Verstappen’s plight. Team-mate said: “I think it’s a bit of a joke, to be honest.
“This is the pinnacle of the sport, mistakes are made. I certainly wouldn’t be doing it (the community service) and I hope Max doesn’t do it.”