Due to his use of foul language at the Austrian Grand Prix qualifying session, Yuki Tsunoda, driver with Visa Cash RB, was fined €40,000, with part of his payment suspended. Zhou Guanyu of Kick Sauber passed Tsunoda in the pit lane at the conclusion of today’s first qualifying period, causing the incident. “These guys are f***ing retarded,” the Japanese driver complained, sounding irritated over the team radio.
Following a thorough examination, the FIA stewards decided to penalize Tsunoda for his use of derogatory language. The Visa Cash RB driver will be fined €20,000; the remaining sum will be deferred until after the current season, if there is another offense. The stewards acknowledged in their decision that they “consider the driver’s sincere regret,” but they also noted that Tsunoda was appalled to discover the significance of the words he had uttered.
The stewards’ decision said as follows: “The driver was heard using foul language on team radio during Q1 while Car 22 was waiting in the fast lane and another car moved into the fast lane ahead of him. “The driver apologized profusely at the hearing and stated that, as English is not his first language, he did not know the meaning of the phrases uttered until after the session. He claimed that upon discovering this, he was appalled. Although he admitted that this should not be seen as justification for what he did, he argued that his interpretation of the words was different.
The driver’s honesty is valued by the Stewards, but they reiterate that the language used is insulting and completely unsuitable. The International Sporting Code’s Article 20 defines misconduct, and using such language on a public forum qualified as such. “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.”