Hakkinen supports FIA regarding the ban on swearing in F1.

      A well-known former Formula 1 champion has openly supported the FIA regarding its controversial 'swearing ban.' The strict enforcement, along with new penalties that could lead to race bans and the loss of championship points, will be applied across all FIA-sanctioned series, including world rally. The drivers' union for world rally has released a statement criticizing the new rules, described as "unrealistic" and "unacceptable," which are promoted by the contentious FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The statement condemned the "harshness of the penalties imposed for minor, isolated, and unintentional lapses in language."

      Negotiations among F1 teams and Liberty Media are thought to be ongoing in hopes of easing the new regulations to allow drivers to express their emotions while in the cockpit. However, two-time F1 champion Mika Hakkinen has expressed no objections to the swearing restrictions. "Just because swearing is accepted in ski jumping, skiing, football, and basketball doesn't mean it should be in Formula 1," he stated in an interview with Ilta Sanomat. "I believe F1 should set a precedent in every aspect."

      At 56, Hakkinen acknowledged that while drivers might be frustrated, consideration must also be given to viewers at home. "I would be very surprised if, say, a family with children is having dinner and their kids are constantly swearing, that parents would encourage them by saying 'yes, curse more!'" He emphasized that F1 drivers have a duty to act as role models.

      "I can't imagine parents teaching their children to swear," Hakkinen added. "Of course, if someone accidentally hits their thumb with a hammer, I understand that they might let out a few expletives." He admitted that he, too, swore during challenging times in his F1 career. "But I don’t think it’s that hard to adhere to rules like this," he remarked. "Swearing doesn’t denote toughness. If drivers are to be role models for young people, wouldn’t it be better to use appropriate language?"