F1 drivers recalled by FIA for swearing on the podium

The FIA ​​has sent a letter to all F1 teams after the somewhat over the top comments of Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen, live, on the podium of the Abu Dhabi GP. The two are pilots who were pointed out for having said a couple of swear words.

“It is truly our collective responsibility to ensure that pilots are aware that this language must not be given space during media events,” reads the Federation's letter.

The letter was written by FIA communications director Norman Howell at the request of FIA president Jean Todt. According to the FIA, the swearing on the podium at Yas Marina created "embarrassment and unexpected negative publicity for the teams, sponsors, the sport and the FIA".

“We understand that in the heat of battle, adrenaline, exhilaration and disappointment can be a dangerous mix. But F1 drivers are not the only ones interviewed in these conditions: think of boxers, rugby or football players, usually interviewed live on television after a great sporting effort. They manage to avoid inappropriate language."

Howell said the letter had been well received by the teams and explained that he had received "several complaints, from members of the public, FIA staff and the media".

In recent days David Coulthard, author of the interviews on the podium, had expressed his embarrassment.

“We need to remind the drivers that they are professionals,” Howell added. “A driver at that level has to understand that part of his job is to talk to the media and he has to do it in an acceptable way.”

And what do you think?