Verstappen not supported by Hakkinen: 'F1 should be exemplary'

Why many criticised the FIA for the penalty system introduced for swearing, this change does have its supporters. One of them is two-time world champion Mika Häkkinen, who believes swearing has no place in F1.

The former McLaren driver supports the change and believes the FIA has a valid reason for it. "If swearing is allowed in ski jumping, skiing, football and basketball, that doesn't mean it should also be allowed in Formula 1. In my opinion, F1 should be exemplary in all respects," the 1998 and 1999 world champion explained his thoughts to Ilta Sanomat.

According to Hakkinen, swearing by role models has a negative effect on children. "I would find it strange if children cursed constantly during a family dinner and their parents just encouraged them to continue with it. I refuse to believe that parents want to teach their children to swear. Of course, if you hit your thumb with a hammer, I understand that sometimes a expletive [word] comes out," he admits.

The Finnish driver admitted that during his career he could swear heavily, but he stressed that it depends heavily on the place and the moment. "It's really not difficult to stick to such a rule. Swearing does not make you tougher. If F1 drivers are role models for young talents, isn't it better to use appropriate language?" he concluded.

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