F1 drivers to present imminent 'united' front over swearing saga

George Russell has revealed F1 drivers are set to release a joint statement regarding the scrutiny surrounding swearing.

Last month FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem asserted F1 drivers are “not rappers” as he took issue with the frequency of swearing while inside the cockpit.

Reigning world champion Max Verstappen swore in the Thursday press conference in Singapore and was handed a community service sentence - prompting him to deliver extremely brief answers in protest during the FIA press conferences on Saturday and Sunday.

Russell, a director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), confirmed a joint statement regarding will be released after the race weekend in the United States.

“Between the drivers, a lot of us have spoken regarding swearing,” Russell told media including RacingNews365. 

“It does seem a little bit silly that it has come to this. I mean, we're yet to speak with the FIA, but we hope to do so probably next week, maybe in Mexico.

“But collectively, we are all on the same page. Next week, we'll probably formally put something towards you guys to read from the drivers as a united whole.”

F1 drivers 'have a duty', warns Russell

Team radio messages containing profanity are often broadcast during race weekends, albeit with the swear word bleeped out.

While Russell asserted it is difficult to use softer words in the heat of battle, he acknowledged that drivers hold a certain duty of care.

“Generally speaking, we don't want to be taking away the heat of the moment and emotions that drivers show during a race,” Russell said.

“I think it is down to maybe the broadcaster, when it comes to the race to choose if they want to broadcast that or not.

“It is very challenging for the drivers when you have a microphone, you're talking with your team, you're in the middle of battle.

“But equally, if it's in an environment like this, maybe we have a duty just to be conscious of our words.”