‘Point deduction for swearing’- FIA's new misconduct rule looks completely aimed at Max Verstappen

The FIA, ruling body of Formula 1, has announced a new set of misconduct rules to make drivers more disciplined and dignified. But it looks like it was tailor-made for Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, who often brushes shoulders with the FIA and F1.

With the new misconduct rules, Max Verstappen could be fined up to 80,000 euros and lose championship points if he continues his foul language over the radio or about the FIA and F1. Last year he was made to do community service for using inappropriate words during the Singapore Grand Prix driver's press conference.

FIA's New Penalty Guidelines

the new FIA stewards guidelines got published today…

“article 12.2.1.l any misconduct” includes “the general use of language that is offensive, insulting, coarse, rude or abusive” oh man… pic.twitter.com/3K3bz4ctBv

— nini (@SCUDERIAFEMBOY) January 22, 2025

This series of steward penalty guidelines could be a nightmare for Formula 1 drivers. The misconduct guidelines include punishments for language (written or verbal), offensive gestures or signs, insulting, rude or abusive behaviour, humiliation, assault, etc.

The base fine will be 10,000 euros for the first offence, which is 40,000 euros for an F1 driver. The second time it will be 20,000 euros and for F1 drivers it will be 80,000 euros with a one-month suspension. If it continues for the third time then it will be 30,000 euros and for F1 drivers a huge 1,20,000 Euros fine with 1 month suspension and deduction of championship points.

Also Read: F1 2025: Top Female leaders making their mark in the Pinnacle of Motorsport

People who fail to attend the FIA official ceremonies will also have to pay a fine that starts at 15,000 Euros; for the second time, it will be 30000 euros, with the suspension to reserved areas on the next event like Track, Paddock, Parc Ferte, and media zones. For the third time, it will be 45,000 euros and a 6-month suspension. 

For F1 drivers, these fines will be multiplied by four, which is huge. For World Rally and Endurance Championship drivers, the fine will be three times multiplied by the base fine. So FIA is taking this very seriously to bring the drivers to the right conduct. But how will the F1 Drivers Association consider all these? Let’s wait and see.

Also Read: 'One of the best feelings'- Lewis Hamilton talks about driving a Ferrari for the first time