The FIA have confirmed a rule change regarding penalties for swearing received by drivers, in an official announcement made by Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

Max Verstappen, for example, was given a community service-style penalty for swearing during a press conference back in October and he – and chairman of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) George Russell – have been very vocal about the implementation of the policy.

FIA back down on driver swearing punishments

World Rally Championship (WRC) driver Adrien Fourmaux was also fined €10,000 and hit with a suspended €20,000 fine for using ‘inappropriate language’ during a TV interview earlier in 2025, prompting a row between WRC drivers, co-drivers and the FIA.