Charles Leclerc receives a €10,000 fine for bad behavior
Charles Leclerc found himself surprised during a press conference last week in Mexico when he used a swear word in the press conference. Forgetting the rule of 0 swear words in public, he immediately reacted by laughing. After being summoned by the FIA, he was fined €10,000, half of which was suspended.
Charles Leclerc, driver for Scuderia Ferrari, found himself at the center of a controversy after the 2024 Mexico Grand Prix. The race stewards, appointed by the FIA and in cooperation with the Mexican ASN (OMDAI) and the Brazilian steward, were called upon to investigate a statement made by Leclerc during the post-race press conference. The origin of this inquiry lies in the inappropriate language deemed to have been used by the driver in response to a question asked during the conference.
After accidentally saying a swear word, the Monegasque driver then laughed saying, “Darn, I don’t want to join Max.” Referring to the community service received by Max Verstappen after using swear words during a press conference.
Immediately, Leclerc realized his mistake and apologized, a reaction that played a decisive role in the commissioners’ evaluation of the situation. This outburst of sincerity on his part clearly indicates the emotion and tension present in these critical moments where every word spoken can sometimes surpass thought.
The stewards, in their report, wanted to remind that it is the FIA’s policy to ensure that the language used in its public conferences, such as press conferences, complies with the generally accepted standards for all audiences and all broadcasts. Indeed, as public figures and role models for motor sports fans, Formula 1 drivers must embody exemplary values. This requirement from the FIA is not new and has already been reinforced in previous cases, allowing to maintain a high level of responsibility for participants.
Despite the nature of the incident, the commissioners noted several mitigating factors in favor of Leclerc. On the one hand, the language was not directed towards anyone or any group, and on the other hand, Leclerc showed contrite behavior which evidently influenced the final decision. Due to this exemplary attitude after the incident, the commissioners deemed a fine was sufficient to address this warning, without imposing a harsher penalty. Therefore, Leclerc was fined 10,000 euros, with 5,000 euros suspended on the condition that there is no similar infraction in the next twelve months.
