FIA steward Johnny Herbert has come forward to defend the community service punishment imposed on Max Verstappen for his use of profanity during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend. Verstappen was summoned by the stewards after he swore during the official Thursday press conference, just hours after FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem urged drivers to reduce their use of foul language.
The Red Bull driver faced the consequences for his language, which included a community service requirement. This decision sparked controversy, particularly after Lewis Hamilton suggested Verstappen should dismiss what he termed a “joke” sanction. Following the qualifying session, Verstappen initially refrained from answering questions in the press conference but later engaged in an informal media session in the paddock.
Herbert, who was part of the FIA’s decision-making team in Singapore, believes the punishment was warranted. He noted, “Max used the f-word regarding his car during the press conference. These events are broadcast worldwide, and swearing is becoming increasingly common. A press conference should not be a venue for such language.”
He addressed criticisms suggesting the FIA is trying to make drivers overly restrained, clarifying, “That’s not the intent. We simply want drivers to refrain from swearing, which is a reasonable expectation. Most drivers manage to avoid such language.”
The situation escalated when Verstappen’s post-conference behavior drew attention; he provided terse responses and later held an unplanned press briefing outside. Herbert remarked on this, acknowledging Verstappen’s rebellious nature and asserting that it contributes to his identity as an honest and outspoken individual.
However, he emphasized the need for appropriateness, stating, “I personally believe there is too much swearing. I wouldn’t want my five-year-old grandchild exposed to that kind of language.” Herbert’s comments highlight a broader concern about the image and conduct of Formula 1 drivers, especially in public forums where their words can reach a global audience.
