Formula One Driver Swearing Ban Penalties Reduced After Widespread Backlash 6n3m15

The governing body of Formula One has reduced the punishments for drivers after the F1 swearing ban was met with near-unanimous opposition.

A new version of the FIA’s guidelines was issued to stewards on Wednesday.

The updated document has removed the threat of a race ban, while massively reducing the maximum fine a driver can face.

Under the old rules, Formula 1 drivers had multipliers on their fines compared to those in junior categories, meaning their fines were increased four times more than the base level.

These multipliers have also now removed.

There has also been a new differentiation drawn up between offences in “controlled” or “uncontrolled” environments.

In practice, this means fines on track will be less severe than in press conferences, where adrenaline and safety risks are not a contributing factor to the language a driver might use.

But even the new guidelines have not satisfied many, with some big names still criticising the FIA.

📰: David Coulthard criticizes the FIA’s new swear ban, calling it unrealistic to expect calm behavior in high-pressure F1 environments. He compares it to football fans’ language, suggests profanity isn’t usually offensive, and stresses drivers should focus on racing, not… pic.twitter.com/wZVvvwWviC

— F1 Naija (@f1_naija) May 15, 2025

How Much Do F1 Drivers Get Fined Under Swearing Ban? y4h2b

The previous F1 swearing ban meant drivers could be fined up to €40,000 (£33,700) for a first offence.

Second offences could be double that, with the possibility of a race ban for repeated offenders.

But the new guidelines stipulate an initial fine of €5,000 (£4,200), with no race ban threat.

However, there is still scope for “more severe penalties” for “very serious offences”.

The rules maintain the FIA’s firm stance against bad language, abuse of officials and public criticism of the governing body.

Drivers are also not allowed to make or display “political, religious and personal statements or comments notably in violation of the general principle of neutrality promoted by the FIA under its statutes”.

Breachers of that policy could face a €20,000 (£16,800) fine.

Why Did The FIA Introduce Swearing Fines? 101l3k

The latest changes are what the FIA has described as a “major improvement” to appendix B of it’s sporting code.

In January, the governing body introduced far stricter punishments for bad language, which led to severe backlash.

The decision to introduce the heavier fines came after F1 world champion Max Verstappen faced punishment for swearing during a news conference at the Singapore Grand Prix last season.

Verstappen was made to do what basically amounted to community service, something he objected to.

The drivers then sent an open letter to the FIA, demanding they were treated like adults.

Mercedes driver George Russell had also called for action on the swearing ban, and has spoken out publicly against the draconian rules.

FIA President Ben Sulayem Backs Down On Swearing Ban b1c1m

Mohammed Ben Sulaymen, president of the FIA, has taken a great deal of criticism lately over his introduction and handling of the F1 swearing ban.

But he appears to have taken some of that onboard, and backed down to a degree.

In a statement, he said: “As a former rally driver, I know first hand the range of emotions that are faced during competition.

“I have led an extensive and collaborative review with contributions from across the seven FIA World Championships, FIA Member Clubs and other motor sports organisations.

“The improvements the FIA has announced today to Appendix B will ensure we continue to promote the best of sportsmanship in motorsport, while also giving stewards effective guidelines to act against individuals who may bring the sport into disrepute.

“The FIA will always be committed to ensuring motor sport is accessible for all our sporting family.”