Max Verstappen says Formula 1 has become ‘less enjoyable’ after new regulations introduced by the FIA I saw him penalized for foul language.

The reigning champion found himself something of a martyr, having become the recipient of the governing body’s new rules regarding swearing-in at the Singapore Grand Prix.

Verstappen was given a one-day community service order for using an expletive while answering a question about his car’s settings during the previous race in Azerbaijan.

“I don’t know, man. Different configuration. So as soon as I got into qualifying I knew the car was screwed,” he said.

After being inflicted the punishment – which violated article 12.2.1k of the International Sporting Code – the Dutchman then gave short, one-word answers at the following press conference, followed by an impromptu media event he organized with journalists in the Red Bull hospitality suite.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was the next driver to be reprimanded in Mexico, although he was fined for the incident, escaping further punishment after apologizing.

The FIA’s changes to its regulations have caused a significant setback from drivers, with the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association – chaired by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz and led by George Russell – issuing a statement regarding the perception of driver behavior.

The press release also criticizes the use of the media by the president of the FIA ​​– Mohammed Ben Sulayem – who urges him to “think about his own tone and his own language”.

Verstappen disagrees with repression

Speaking to the media, Verstappen said: “You always have to be politically correct. »

“That’s always been the case, but I think with some things that have happened recently, it makes it a little less pleasant.”

Asked if the situation between the drivers and the FIA ​​is getting worse, Verstappen added: “Whether the situation gets worse, I don’t know, but for me, I prefer not to say too much.

“(I) just live my life, doing what I have to do on race weekends, but also outside of it.

“Do what you love, (but) you have to be very careful about what you say.”

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