Reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has expressed his determination to maintain his natural behaviour, despite the prospect of significant penalties that could exceed $200,000. The FIA has announced new regulations set to take effect in 2025, prohibiting drivers from using foul language during team communications.
Under the latest rules, a first offence will incur a hefty fine of €40,000 (approximately $69,052), while a second infringement could lead to a fine of €80,000 ($138,104) alongside a suspended one-month ban. A third violation may carry a recommended penalty of €120,000 ($207,156), in addition to a one-month suspension and a possible points deduction in the championship.
The new regulations have faced backlash from fans, fellow drivers, and commentators alike. Appearing on Nine’s Weekend Today, Verstappen reinforced his stance, saying, “It’s better not to think about (the fines), to be honest. At the end of the day, I don’t stand here and tell you how to behave or what to do in life, so for me that won’t change.”
He further elaborated that these changes could turn drivers into "robots," stating, "On the race track with these new rules, you don’t really get the real driver in front of you, which is a bit of a shame." Verstappen underscored the importance of emotion in sports, lamenting that if all drivers were to become robotic, it would diminish the excitement of the competition. He concluded, "But I guess we have to deal with that now," indicating a resigned acceptance of the forthcoming changes.