Sainz: I'm going to get another fine for saying this but sh!t happens

Williams driver Sainz was fined 20,000 euros ($22,200), with half of that suspended, after arriving late during the Japanese national anthem before last week's race in Suzuka. The FIA-appointed F1 stewards' ruling said Sainz explained he was late because of "discomfort" over a stomach problem and that a doctor confirmed Sainz needed medication.

Sainz told reporters in Bahrain: "I'm the biggest supporter of punctuality ... I was the first one to put my hand up and say, `I'm late, I'm sorry for that.´ At the same time, I was five seconds late. For me it's out of the question that we're having to pay these fines. I don't know if I'm going to get another fine for saying this, but sh!t happens, you know, it's the way it is."

Sainz risks a fine of 40,000 euros ($44,400) for swearing under tougher rules introduced this year. Drivers can be suspended if they swear repeatedly.

Sainz is one of the directors of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) which represents the Formula 1 drivers and has been sharply critical of the FIA, the series' governing body, over attempts to crack down on swearing.