Mohammed Ben Sulayem finds an ally in the fight against swearing with Toto Wolff
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff doesn't always agree with Mohammed Ben Sulayem's policy, but he does share his views on combating the use of swear words in Formula 1.
The president of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, received unexpected support from Toto Wolff in his initiative to ban foul language from the sport. Although the FIA president and the Mercedes boss do not agree on all F1 matters, Toto Wolff believes that efforts to improve the image of drivers are important, particularly due to a recent personal experience.
In a context where drivers are considered role models, Toto Wolff emphasizes that their language can influence young racing fans. During a meeting at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, at the end of the season, Toto Wolff and Mohammed Ben Sulayem reportedly discussed this issue.
“I have a seven-year-old son who goes karting and watches everything,” said Wolff. “A few months ago, he said to me: ‘What the f**k’. I asked him where he heard that. He replied: ‘the drivers’.”
« So, I have my disagreements with Mohammed, but on this specific point, drivers, all drivers, are role models. They speak live, and they have a responsibility. I disagree with many other things he [Ben Sulayem] proposes, but on this subject, I think it is important to limit it. If we translate ‘f**k’ into my language or another, it’s quite vulgar. I would never say that on the radio. »
« George [Russell], Lewis [Hamilton], and I discussed this topic, and they know that I don’t like it. So, I completely agree with taking measures to limit this language. Some drivers, whether native or not, use these terms, and in my opinion, I would be in favor of even stricter penalties. That’s just my opinion. »
An example to give
Mohammed Ben Sulayem had announced his intention to fight against swearing before the Singapore Grand Prix. That weekend, world champion Max Verstappen was sanctioned for using a swear word during a press conference.
The Dutch driver received a day of community service from the FIA, which he completed during his visit to the official Awards Gala in Rwanda.
In a recent interview with Autosport, Mohammed Ben Sulayem reaffirmed his belief that it was a worthy cause, despite the controversies sparked by his comments. When asked if this fight was worth it, he answered: « A fight? To clean up the sport, yes. But did I write these rules on swearing? Did I implement and apply them? I ask you, because it is the stewards. It’s not me. It’s the stewards. So, go ask them why it’s like that. »
« We send a message to young people, regardless of their age. And, excuse me, advertisements and films are indeed classified by age groups, aren’t they? »
The head of the FIA believes that the current generation of drivers should take inspiration from the conduct of legendary athletes of the past. « Do we really need to use swear words? Honestly, » he added. « Did Michael Schumacher do it? Did Mohammed Ali do it? Sure, he was outspoken, but did he ever use a curse word? Did Pelé do it? »
« We are in a very particular sport, and we must protect it from foul language. I will never approve of such remarks. »
