P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen was punished last year for swearing during an FIA press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown believes it is the responsibility of F1 television production to censor swear words during broadcasts rather than expecting drivers to watch their language. Last year, Max Verstappen received community service for swearing in an FIA press conference, as FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed a desire for drivers to eliminate swearing altogether. The Grand Prix Drivers’ Association has distinguished between swearing as an insult and casual conversation in a letter to Ben Sulayem. Brown emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism in press conferences, citing examples from other sports where profanity is not common. While Brown recognizes the difficulty of controlling emotions during on-track battles, he suggests that TV production can choose not to air driver comments containing profanity through delay or deletion. Ultimately, Brown believes that a balance can be struck between showcasing emotion and ensuring a respectful broadcast environment.
