Charles Leclerc and swearing incident in press conference like Max Verstappen: FIA’s official verdict. Outcome of investigation on Charles Leclerc’s swearing during the post-Mexico GP press conference.

Charles Leclerc will not be joining Max Verstappen in performing community service, but he will still have to reach for his wallet.

Despite multiple apologies made live shortly after the incident during the press conference following the Mexican GP, the FIA has still decided to sanction the Monegasque (albeit mildly), even though the Dutch driver complained about being the only one previously punished.

“It seems to matter only for me because after the race in Mexico, someone swore. I didn’t hear anything,” commented the three-time world champion on the eve of the Interlagos weekend.

“It’s strange. Actually, what he said is worse than what I said in context, and it was in a much more important press conference with more people watching.”

Leclerc Gets Away with a Fine
The stewards present at Interlagos, after reviewing everything, decided to fine the Monegasque a sum of 10,000 euros, with “5,000 euros suspended on the condition that no other similar violations occur within the next 12 months.”

“I had oversteer, and then, when I recovered, I had oversteer on the other side, and I said to myself, ‘f***,’” said Charles Leclerc, which ended up costing him dearly.

Realizing his slip-up, Leclerc then tried to salvage the situation: “Oh, sorry! Oh, no, oh no! I don’t want to join Max!”

After the conference, a federation delegate immediately approached the Ferrari driver to ask for explanations, and he reportedly apologized repeatedly.

In a document released by race control shortly ago, the stewards explained that “the FIA’s policy is to ensure that the language used in its public forums, such as press conferences, conforms to generally accepted standards for all audiences and broadcasts.”

“This is especially true for the statements of championship participants, who are therefore role models both within and outside of this sport. This is clearly stated in the FIA regulations and has been reinforced by previous cases brought before the Stewards. During the hearing, Charles Leclerc expressed his regret for his momentary lapse in judgment and stated that he understood his responsibility as a role model for the sport. The Stewards took into consideration as a mitigating factor that Leclerc immediately apologized. The Stewards, while noting the driver’s contrite behavior, concluded that a violation had occurred and that a penalty was warranted.”