The FIA has chosen not to sanction Sebastian Vettel for his radio tirade at the Mexican Grand Prix but have warned that a repeat of such behavior will result in immediate disciplinary actions.
Vettel’s radio outburst was broadcast on the live TV feed where he told FIA Race Director Charlie Whiting to “F— off”.
Vettel, after the race, immediately went to Whiting to apologize before heading to the media pen for interviews.
In a statement released by the FIA on Tuesday evening, it emerged that Vettel had sent letters of apology to Charlie Whiting and FIA President Jean Todt apologizing for his actions during the race and that he would speak to Max Versatppen. He also vowed that they type of behavior he exhibited will not be repeated.
“Immediately following this incident, Sebastian Vettel spontaneously sought out Charlie Whiting to express his regrets for his behavior in person<” said the FIA in the statement.
“He then, again on his own initiative, sent letters to each of the FIA President Jean Todt and Charlie Whiting, in which he apologized profusely for his actions.”
“He also indicated that he would likewise be contacting Max Verstappen and vowed that such an incident would never occur again.”
The FIA took the decision not to take disciplinary action against Vettel citing an exceptional basis but also made it clear that such behavior will not be tolerated from any driver. It is also clear that Vettel is on his final warning so to speak and that any repeat of his behavior exhibited in Mexico would result in disciplinary action before the FIA International Tribunal.
“In the light of this sincere apology and strong commitment, the FIA President has decided, on an exceptional basis, not to take disciplinary action against Mr Vettel by bringing this matter before the FIA International Tribunal,” the statement continued.
“The FIA will always condemn the use of offensive language in motor sport – especially when directed at officials and/or fellow participants – and expects all participants in its Championships to be respectful and mindful of the example they set for the public and the younger generation in particular.
“The FIA takes this opportunity to advise that, in the event of any future incident similar to the one that occurred in Mexico, disciplinary action will be taken by bringing such incident before the FIA International Tribunal to be judged.”
Photo credit: Scuderia Ferrari Formula One
