George Russell defends drivers’ authenticity after FIA’s new regulations against swearing

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, has clearly expressed his intention to reduce swearing in F1. According to his recent statements, he is even considering introducing severe sanctions, such as a racing ban or point deductions for drivers who commit too many language infractions. A rule that would come into effect for the 2025 season.

« Things have gotten a bit out of hand in recent months », admits George Russell, highlighting that certain situations have become « uncontrollable ». According to the British driver, swearing can impact the image of drivers: « Not only are we race drivers, but we are personalities », he tells BBC Sport.

Radio, a platform for drivers to express themselves

For Russell, there is a true time and place for swearing. While he acknowledges the importance of careful communication during press conferences or public interviews, he believes that on the radio during a race, drivers should be able to express their emotions unfiltered. We must ensure that our emotions remain real and true, especially when it comes to radio (in the car), and potentially in an interview right after the race, he confides. That’s what’s so pure.

After all, who hasn’t yelled in frustration in the car after a failed overtake or a strategic mistake? The radio then becomes an outlet, a space to be as authentic as possible, as Russell says.

As the Australian Grand Prix approaches, a compromise has been reached between the drivers and the FIA. The new rule states that drivers will not be penalized for swearing on the radio during the race, but insults made during press conferences or media interviews will now be punished.

While defending the right to emotion on the radio, Russell points out that speaking on a Thursday afternoon in front of several people, maybe swearing is not really necessary or required. He therefore advocates for a clear distinction between moments when emotion is justified and those when communication should remain more professional.

A call for pilots’ freedom of expression

« If you are an individual who wants to swear as much as you like, it has a certain impact on your brand and your perception regardless of the FIA’s involvement, says George Russell. For the British driver, it is essential that the FIA allows some leeway for drivers to express their true personality, as long as it is done within an appropriate framework.

After all, it is this spontaneity that is part of the charm of F1. And if this part of the show is repressed in the name of image, the sport risks losing a valuable dimension in the eyes of fans who follow these athletes for their character as well as for their performances. The compromise found may well be a solution to balance respect for the image and the authenticity of the drivers, but only time will tell if this approach will satisfy everyone.