Carlos Sainz avoids fine for language violation at Bahrain Grand Prix

Dominika Jordan
Apr 11, 2025, 8:28 AM ET

Sainz avoids €40,000 fine for language violation at Bahrain GP after apologizing, FIA enforces stricter penalties.

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

Williams driver Carlos Sainz narrowly avoided a potential €40,000 ($45,370) fine for using inappropriate language on Friday after the FIA decided not to refer him to the stewards at the Bahrain Grand Prix. An FIA spokesperson announced that the Spaniard had apologized for his behavior and would compensate for the breach in a to-be-determined manner.

Under the leadership of Emirati Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Formula 1 has implemented stricter measures against swearing during press conferences, with severe penalties clearly outlined in the FIA's sporting code. This season, a first offense carries a €40,000 fine, escalating to €80,000 ($91,000) for a second offense. A third transgression triggers a €120,000 ($136,000) fine, a one-month suspension, and a deduction of championship points.

Sainz let slip the offensive language during an FIA press conference on Thursday while discussing a €20,000 ($22,200) fine, with half suspended, that he had received at the Japanese Grand Prix the previous weekend for being late to the pre-race national anthem. He had explained his tardiness by citing a "stomach issue" that required a restroom visit.

"I don't know if I'm going to get another fine for saying this, but s--- happens. It's the way it is. It's the way it goes sometimes," Sainz remarked.

The FIA delegate, who was present in the room, indicated on Thursday that he would speak with Sainz before deciding on any further action.

Fortunately for Sainz, his apology seems to have addressed the issue, allowing him to focus on the weekend's racing without the burden of an additional fine.