Gordon Ramsay: F1 drivers risk their lives, if the sh!t hits the fan... [Mic Cut]

This season, drivers face the prospect of a one-month ban if they repeatedly swear or criticise the sport's governing body, the FIA, under controversial regulations set to take effect. The move follows FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s push to clamp down on bad language and reinforce the organisation's authority as Formula 1’s regulator.

Ramsay, a long-time F1 enthusiast and well-known for his liberal use of expletives made his feelings clear when discussing the new measure at the F1 75 season launch event on Tuesday night: “They're risking their life every time, travelling over 200mph per hour. So, if the s**t hits the fan...”
Before he could finish his sentence, his microphone was cut, drawing a reaction from the audience.

The new rules have sparked debate ahead of the upcoming season, with neither the drivers nor Formula One Group – which operates the sport under Liberty Media – consulted on the increased penalties for misconduct.

Max Verstappen was one of the first high-profile figures affected by the FIA’s tightening stance, having received scrutiny for swearing over team radio during last year’s Singapore Grand Prix. The Red Bull ace remains unhappy with the "unnecessary" clampdown that has already affected a WRC driver.

Under the new framework, a first offence will result in a €40,000 fine, while a second will see the penalty rise to €80,000 and a suspended one-month ban. A third infraction would trigger a €120,000 fine, a one-month ban, and the deduction of championship points.

The scope of the regulations extends beyond swearing. F1 personnel could also face sanctions for causing moral injury or loss to the FIA, inciting violence or hatred, or making political, religious, or personal statements that contravene FIA neutrality guidelines. Failure to comply with FIA instructions at official ceremonies is also punishable.

Pre-season Formula 1 testing begins in Bahrain next week, with the 2025 Formula 1 season officially commencing with the season-opening Australian Grand Prix weekend on 14 to 16 March at Albert Park in Melbourne.