Charles Leclerc fined €10k by FIA for swearing during Mexico GP press conference

SAO PAULO — Ferrari's Charles Leclerc has been fined €10,000 by the FIA, with half suspended for a year, after swearing during a post-race press conference at the Mexico Grand Prix.

The stewards noted that Leclerc's situation differed from Max Verstappen's swearing incident in Singapore, which resulted in community service. Leclerc used the word "f---" while describing a moment when he nearly lost control of his car, but he quickly apologized, saying, "Oh, sorry! Oh, no, oh no! I don't want to join Max!"

The stewards acknowledged Leclerc's immediate apology, contrasting it with Verstappen's lack of one. "The stewards considered the mitigation factor that Leclerc was immediately apologetic," a statement read. As a result, the fine was set at €10,000 with €5,000 suspended pending no repeat offense within 12 months.

The crackdown on swearing follows comments by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who emphasized a distinction between motorsport and rap music. This comparison drew criticism, notably from Lewis Hamilton, who argued it played to a "stereotype" and had a "racial element."

Leclerc’s quick apology and the context led to a lighter penalty, showcasing the FIA's balanced approach to maintaining professional conduct without excessive punishment.

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