As anticipation builds for the Brazilian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen has reignited his feud with the FIA, accusing the organization of selective enforcement when it comes to driver penalties. The three-time world champion, fresh off a string of intense races in the U.S. and Mexico, voiced his frustrations in Thursday’s media day, claiming that Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc received favorable treatment after using explicit language in the aftermath of the Mexico Grand Prix.
Verstappen, who faced community service penalties earlier in the season for swearing about his car, expressed frustration, saying, “Apparently, it only counts for me anyway because after the race in Mexico, someone was swearing. I didn’t hear anything from it. So it’s better I don’t swear again.” His remarks suggest a belief that the FIA applies rules inconsistently, depending on the driver in question.
Verstappen also addressed criticism of his recent driving style and the pressure to change, remarking, “It’s my 10th year in F1. I think I know what I’m doing. I have my opinions, I don’t need to share them,” before commenting on the increase in regulations: “The rule book is only getting bigger and bigger every year and I don’t think that’s always the right way.”
As Verstappen heads into the weekend with a significant lead, all eyes will be on the Dutch driver to see if the tension with the FIA continues and how it will impact his performance on the track.
