JUST IN: The real Story behind Max Verstappen showing middle finger in Bahrain F1 test
The Formula One paddock was abuzz when Max Verstappen flashed his middle finger while passing the Williams garage during Friday’s winter test in Bahrain. The gesture, which appeared to be directed at a man standing outside the Williams command centre, sparked speculation that Verstappen was expressing his displeasure towards an intrusive photographer. However, it has since been revealed that the individual in question was none other than Williams junior driver Luke Browning, a friend of Verstappen’s.
As it turns out, Verstappen’s gesture was not a defiant rebuke aimed at a photographer, but rather a ‘friendly greeting’ to an old acquaintance. Nevertheless, the incident has sparked debate over the FIA’s recent crackdown on driver conduct. Verstappen, who currently has eight penalty points on his tally, is at risk of a race ban if he accumulates 12 or more points within a 12-month period.
The FIA has announced a zero-tolerance policy towards drivers who use profanity or make obscene gestures, with punishments ranging from fines to penalty points. However, many drivers and team principals have expressed their dissatisfaction with the FIA’s hardline approach, arguing that it is overly strict and fails to take into account the emotional intensity of the sport.
Verstappen himself has been a vocal critic of the FIA’s stance, urging for a more measured approach. “Honestly, I don’t think it’s necessary to enforce the rules this way,” he said. “I believe we need a bit of common sense here.” The Red Bull driver also pointed out that the public perception of the FIA’s stance on the matter speaks volumes. “I understand that we can’t be swearing all the time. As drivers, we get that. But in the heat of the moment, when you’re being interviewed or still in the car, adrenaline can take over, and something might slip out. We’re all adults. It shouldn’t be taken so literally.”
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has also expressed his opposition to the FIA’s stance, arguing that while drivers should refrain from using profanity, the governing body should also take into account the context in which such language is used. “None of us encourage such language,” Wolff said. “We are role models, and while people may laugh about it, I see us as representatives of a sport with a certain gentlemanly character. We stand for high technology, for precision, and in that sense, we are different from many other popular sports.”
The debate over the FIA’s crackdown on driver conduct is likely to continue, with many arguing that the governing body needs to find a balance between maintaining a level of professionalism and allowing drivers to express themselves in the heat of the moment. As the season gets underway, it will be interesting to see how the FIA’s stance on this issue evolves, and whether drivers will be able to find a way to express themselves without incurring the wrath of the governing body.
