F1 | Lando Norris hit with $60,000 fine after Las Vegas incident: the unusual reason. Lando Norris was fined $60,000 by the FIA after using a swear word during live TV interviews.

Lando Norris fined $60,000 after Las Vegas disqualification for unusual reason

The Las Vegas Grand Prix ended with a moment that immediately drew global attention. During post-race interviews, Lando Norris used a swear word live on worldwide television, which not only caused Max Verstappen to burst into laughter but also resulted in a significant fine for the British driver. The moment was caught on camera and went viral within minutes.

Right after crossing the finish line, Lando Norris spoke with David Coulthard and actor Sam Worthington. The McLaren driver initially tried to joke, saying he had “let Max through to entertain him.” Moments later, he admitted the real reason for his move: “I braked too late. It was my mistake. I messed up. I wanted to put on a show, we’re in Las Vegas.” He then let out an expletive on live TV.

Norris faces not only disqualification but also a hefty fine

When David Coulthard attempted to ask for clarification, Lando Norris interrupted him bluntly: “I said I ruined everything.” David Coulthard quickly responded, “You can’t say that on live TV. I apologize to the audience.” Max Verstappen, standing beside them, laughed heartily at the exchange.

The moment echoed a similar incident in 2024, when Max Verstappen was required by the FIA to complete community service after using similar language on television. That action was part of the FIA’s “image model” campaign introduced by President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, and since then, the governing body has paid close attention to drivers’ public language.

This time, the penalty was financial. According to photographer Mark Sutton, Lando Norris received a fine of approximately $59,000. The unexpected sanction has surprised many fans and reignited the debate over the FIA’s regulations on drivers’ language in public and broadcast appearances.

The fine has sparked discussions online. Many fans praised Lando Norris for his spontaneity in a high-adrenaline moment, while others argue that Formula 1 must maintain professional language for a global audience. The incident has reopened conversations about the severity of sanctions and the boundaries of public conduct for drivers in Formula 1.

One thing is certain – Lando Norris’s Las Vegas weekend will be remembered for a lot more than just the plank wear that disqualified both McLarens.