In a bold statement, Williams duo Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon have voiced their opposition to the FIA’s controversial new rule that could result in fines or suspensions for Formula One drivers who swear or criticize officials. The regulation, which aims to regulate language used by drivers, has sparked backlash from those on the grid.
Sainz, who recently made the switch from Ferrari to Williams, strongly criticized the move, arguing that drivers should not face penalties for expressing themselves under the intense pressure of a race. Albon echoed these sentiments, revealing that drivers had already discussed how to address the issue among themselves.
“It’s still ongoing about how we want to set out what we say around it,” Albon shared at the launch of the new Williams car at Silverstone on Friday. “It’s a delicate matter and, of course, do we think it’s right? Of course not.”
While both drivers acknowledged that swearing in a public setting, such as during a news conference, is unacceptable, they argued that it’s a different scenario when drivers are on the track. Sainz passionately defended the moments when drivers express their emotions during races, especially over the radio.
“I don’t agree with what is happening,” Sainz said regarding the new rule. “You cannot understand the pressure and adrenaline we feel in the car when we open the radio. And for F1, it is good to have those moments because you see the real driver.”
Sainz believes these raw moments add authenticity to Formula 1, stating, “When you hear that passion, those words, even if sometimes we swear on the radio, for me that’s a keeper in F1, and it is something we shouldn’t get rid of.”
The FIA, led by president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has yet to clarify how the new system will be enforced. However, Ben Sulayem previously expressed his desire to curb swearing among drivers, citing it as detrimental to the sport’s image.
As the debate continues, it’s clear that F1 drivers are not ready to silence their passion, and many are expected to continue challenging this controversial new rule.
