Max Verstappen sarcastic in press conference against the ridiculous FIA penalty

Max Verstappen led a silent protest on Saturday during the post-qualifying press conference in Singapore, over what he described as a ridiculous sanction against him. The Dutch driver, who qualified second behind Lando Norris, had been ordered to carry out community service for describing the performance of his Red Bull as a bit messed up at the drivers’ press conference on Thursday. The FIA stewards had cited a breach of the international sporting code for improper behavior, and advised Verstappen to be cautious when speaking in public forums.

In response to this sanction, Verstappen deliberately gave short answers during the FIA’s official press conference after qualifying on Saturday. When asked to detail his responses, he replied, “No, I could receive a fine or an extra day [of work],” adding that he would prefer to be asked questions outside the press conference room. Speaking to journalists once outside, he stated, “I find what happened ridiculous. So why should I give complete answers? Because apparently, it is very easy to get a fine or some kind of penalty. Therefore, I prefer not to talk too much, keep my voice. Of course, we can do the interviews elsewhere,” implying that his issue was with the FIA.

Verstappen clarified that the use of swear words was just a slip of the moment and that he did not target anyone in particular. “I didn’t insult anyone. I just said something about my car,” he said. He also felt that he had not said anything offensive. “Honestly, I don’t think what I said was so bad. Of course, I would understand if it was perceived that way if you target someone. Emotions can be strong, but it’s not acceptable, I understand that,” he said, expressing his incomprehension about the punishment imposed on him.

For Red Bull’s driver, the FIA used his case to set a precedent. People have received warnings or a small fine, and with me, they want to set an even more striking example, I suppose. However, he refrained from making direct reproaches to the stewards. I do not want to blame the stewards because I had a very good discussion with them. They are only enforcing the regulations. I think they are understanding enough, but it’s also difficult for them, he said.

The reigning world champion has received support from his colleagues at the press conference. Lando Norris, who starts on pole position at the Singapore Grand Prix, expressed his disagreement with this penalty and described it as “Very unfair” Lewis Hamilton, third in qualifying, went further in his criticism, “It’s a bit of a joke, to be honest. It’s the pinnacle of the sport. Mistakes can be made.” The seven-time world champion even suggested that Verstappen should not comply with the FIA penalty, “I certainly wouldn’t have, and I hope Max wouldn’t either.”

The transmission of swear words on the radio has become the number one topic of discussion in the paddock in Singapore after FIA President Mohammed Bin Sulayem raised concerns about too many swear words being broadcast by team radios. The FIA is going to strengthen control over the language used by drivers. This has sparked criticism from the drivers and raised questions about striking a balance between maintaining professionalism and authentic emotional expression.

Despite this controversy, Verstappen remains focused on his main job, he said he was satisfied with his second place in qualifying. “Very happy to be second, to be honest,” while praising his team for the improvements made to the car overnight. “We know it’s not our best circuit on the calendar. Last year we were nowhere with a dominant car, we are in this battle with a less dominant car. Of course, at this stage of the championship, I think we have done a very good job,” he added.

The Red Bull driver also acknowledged the upcoming challenge, especially against McLaren, and expressed concerns about his starting position, McLaren is fast in the race. They are fast in qualifying. Whether it’s hot, cold, raining, they are always there. So, it will be a tough battle. I hope, first of all, to be able to keep the second place because the inside [of the track] is a bit slippery at the start but we will know more tomorrow.

As the lights go out for the showdown around Marina Bay Street circuit, Verstappen, who has remained winless since the Spanish Grand Prix last June, will hope to convert his front-row start into a good result and assert his position in the championship.