Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has described Formula 1 as a “gentleman sport,” drawing parallels to rugby, while sharing his thoughts on the ongoing debate around drivers swearing during races and official events. With the FIA introducing fines for misconduct, including the use of offensive language, Wolff emphasized the need to differentiate between emotional outbursts in the car and inappropriate language in formal settings.
The FIA’s New Rules on Swearing
Ahead of the 2025 season, the FIA introduced a table of fines for driver misconduct, which includes penalties for “words, deeds or writings that have caused moral injury or loss to the FIA” in official settings. This move has sparked widespread discussion, with World Rally Championship drivers already criticizing the decision after Adrien Formaux was fined €10,000 for swearing during a press conference earlier this year.
In Formula 1, similar offenses could result in even harsher financial penalties. Wolff acknowledged the need for professionalism but stressed the importance of balancing emotional expression with respect for the sport’s image.
Wolff’s Perspective: A ‘Gentleman Sport’
Speaking to media in Bahrain, Wolff compared Formula 1 to rugby, highlighting the sport’s sophistication and the respect shown to officials in both disciplines.
“None of us, and I was vocal about it, likes to have these words expressed, because we are role models,” Wolff said. “And I think we are, you may laugh about it, but I think we’re a gentleman sport. We are high tech; we represent that. It’s different to more mainstream sports.”
He added, “I see us a little bit [like], you know, rugby, for me, sophisticated, and nobody would ever say a word to an official. So I don’t think we should be swearing about officials, that’s for sure, and that’s why, also, the FIA needs to protect that. It’s clear.”
Drawing the Line: In-Car vs. Official Settings
Wolff emphasized the need to distinguish between swearing in the heat of the moment during a race and using offensive language in formal settings like press conferences.
“For me, it is about respect – about respect to your competitors, respect to the officials, not insulting anybody, whether it’s your own people or whether it’s an adverse competitor out there on track,” he explained.
He continued, “And it makes a big difference whether you use the F-word in the context of your own driving or out of emotion, because I’m using that if I’m annoyed, but when it is directed in the car to another driver, to an official or to your team, I think this is what we need to prohibit, and we need to make a difference, in my opinion, between these two.”
Balancing Emotions and Professionalism
Wolff made it clear that he doesn’t want to “mute” drivers or suppress their emotions, which are an integral part of the sport. However, he believes that certain standards must be upheld, especially in official settings.
“We don’t want to mute the drivers and their emotions. If we’re in a press conference, if we are being interviewed, it’s a completely different set,” he said. “But in the car, as long as it’s not an insult, and as long as it’s not disrespectful to somebody else, I would just let it go, but that’s my personal opinion.”
The Broader Implications
Wolff’s comments reflect a broader conversation about the balance between authenticity and professionalism in Formula 1. As role models, drivers are expected to uphold certain standards, but the sport also thrives on the raw emotions and rivalries that captivate fans.
The FIA’s new rules aim to protect the sport’s image, but finding the right balance will be key to maintaining the excitement and integrity of Formula 1.
Toto Wolff’s comparison of Formula 1 to rugby underscores the sport’s emphasis on respect and professionalism. While he supports the FIA’s efforts to curb offensive language in official settings, he also advocates for allowing drivers to express their emotions during races.
