George Russell on swearing issue: “The GPDA will publish a letter from all the drivers”. The GPDA, chaired by George Russell, intends to clarify the matter with the FIA and Ben Sulayem in Mexico.

The press conference in Singapore
The “swearing case” that erupted after the pre-weekend press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix seems far from over. During the conference, reigning world champion Max Verstappen used a swear word in his comments to the media. This incident was not well received by the FIA and its president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, with the International Federation sentencing the Dutchman to community service.

The protest by the GPDA
In addition to Max Verstappen’s own protest, the FIA’s stance was not accepted by the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), chaired by George Russell, which has consistently supported Verstappen in this case. The Mercedes driver, along with his fellow Formula 1 drivers, is now preparing to publish a letter addressed to Mohammed Ben Sulayem on the matter.

The public letter in Mexico
Russell himself confirmed this ahead of the United States Grand Prix, commenting to the media on the issue that remains unresolved nearly a month later: “It seems a bit silly that it’s come to this point,” he explained. “We haven’t spoken to the FIA yet, but we hope to do so next week in Mexico. Collectively, we are all on the same page. Next weekend, we will probably formally present something for you to read from all the drivers.”

Swearing on TV
In addition to the desire to avoid using offensive language, as happened with Max Verstappen, Mohammed Ben Sulayem has also expressed his disapproval of team radio communications broadcast on TV that include swearing by drivers during certain race situations, even when censored. “We don’t want to take away the heat of the moment and the emotions drivers show during a race,” Russell continued. “I think it’s up to the broadcaster to decide whether or not to air it when it comes to a race. It’s very challenging for the drivers when you have a microphone, you’re talking to your team, and you’re in the middle of the battle. Off-track, perhaps we have a duty to be more mindful of our words. As I said, I think next week we’ll probably share a letter or something with everyone.”