SPIELBERG, Austria – RB driver Yuki Tsunoda has been fined for using “inappropriate language” over team radio during qualifying for the Austrian Grand Prix.
The stewards summoned Tsunoda when recordings from his radio channel surfaced showing him stating “these guys are f—ing r—rded” in reference to competing drivers. Although it was not televised on Formula One’s international feed, F1 TV provides live audio from each driver’s radio.
After consulting with the Japanese driver, the stewards imposed a €40,000 punishment, of which €20,000 will be postponed until the conclusion of the season if he does not repeat the offense.
When deciding on Tsunoda’s sentence, the stewards considered the fact that English was his second language.
“During Q1 when Car 22 [Tsunoda] was queuing in the fast lane and another car blended into the fast lane ahead of him, the driver was heard to make a statement over team radio using offensive language,” the stewards’ statement said.
“During the hearing, the driver apologized profusely and claimed that because English is not his first language, he had no idea what the phrases used meant in English until after the session. He claimed he was frightened to discover this.
“He said that his meaning of the terms differed, but he accepted that this should not be used as an explanation for his actions.
“The Stewards appreciate the driver’s honesty, but emphasize that the comments used are insulting and completely improper.
“The use of such statements on a public forum constituted misbehavior under Article 20 of the International Sporting Code.
“Considering the circumstances, the Stewards determine that a severe fine is required, but also take into account the genuine remorse of the driver and his offer to issue a public apology and for these reasons decide to suspend part of the fine imposed.”
