George Russell Questions FIA’s Conduct Over Swearing Rule Reversal

Posted : 16 May 2025

Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell has expressed skepticism over the FIA’s handling of penalties related to swearing and criticizing officials. Earlier this week, the governing body walked back its strict stance that could have seen drivers face bans or large fines for such conduct, instead introducing more lenient rules.

Russell, who serves as a director for the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, welcomed the rollback but questioned why such rules were introduced in the first place, suggesting it was unreasonable from the outset. He remarked that while the changes are positive, they shouldn't have been necessary had proper judgment been applied initially.

Other prominent drivers also criticized the original measures. Lewis Hamilton labeled the situation "ridiculous" and called for broader reforms within the sport's leadership. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen—who last year became the first driver to be sanctioned for swearing—described the revisions as a step in the right direction, though still insufficient.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem claimed that the rule adjustments were the result of a collaborative review process across all FIA World Championships. However, Russell questioned the authenticity of that process, pointing out that drivers had yet to receive meaningful communication from senior FIA officials, despite repeated efforts to engage.

Russell hinted that the broader issue may stem from ongoing controversies surrounding Ben Sulayem's tenure, including his attempts to consolidate power by changing FIA statutes. Although Russell stopped short of saying relations with the FIA had broken down entirely, he emphasized that drivers feel ignored and are still waiting for constructive dialogue.

McLaren’s Oscar Piastri also weighed in, acknowledging the value of penalizing abuse toward officials but agreeing that other aspects of the policy had been unnecessarily strict. He welcomed the clarification that gives stewards more discretion based on context.

In light of ongoing dissatisfaction with FIA leadership, Russell voiced support for a potential presidential bid by rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr., believing his motorsport experience could benefit Formula 1 governance.

He dismissed concerns about a conflict of interest due to Sainz’s son being an F1 driver and fellow GPDA director, arguing that the FIA president is typically not directly involved in technical rule-making. Russell emphasized that past FIA presidents operated more in the background, and a return to that style of leadership could help restore trust and focus within the sport.

George Russell Questions FIA’s Conduct Over Swearing Rule Reversal

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