During a recent press conference leading up to the Singapore Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton raised concerns about comments made by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who suggested that Formula 1 drivers should avoid using profanity akin to that found in rap music. Hamilton found these remarks troubling, particularly due to their underlying racial implications.
Ben Sulayem expressed his worries regarding drivers swearing on team radio, despite the fact that these communications are delayed and any profanity is bleeped out. “We need to distinguish between our sport – motorsport – and rap music,” he stated. “We’re not rappers, you know. They say the f-word how many times in a minute? That’s their world, not ours.”
Hamilton strongly disagreed, suggesting that Ben Sulayem’s phrasing reinforces harmful stereotypes. “I don’t appreciate how he expressed his thoughts. Referring to ‘rappers’ is very stereotypical,” he commented. “If you think about it, most rappers are black, which sends the message: ‘We are not like them.’ Those choices of words are misguided and carry a racial undertone.”
Ben Sulayem has not yet publicly responded to Hamilton’s comments. His presidency has faced its share of controversy, including accusations of sexism linked to outdated statements from his personal website. Additionally, he drew criticism for questioning the valuation of Formula One, which resulted in a formal warning from F1’s management about possible regulatory consequences.
The FIA is currently under scrutiny due to an investigation involving Toto Wolff, the head of Mercedes, and his wife, Susie Wolff. Although no misconduct was identified, the lack of transparency surrounding the investigation’s basis and findings has raised further concerns about the organization’s accountability.
Hamilton wasn’t alone in his dissatisfaction with Ben Sulayem’s remarks. Max Verstappen and Lando Norris also voiced their opposition. During a press conference, Verstappen referenced his experience in Baku, where he openly described his car as being “fucked.” When the moderator suggested he be mindful of his language, the reigning champion dismissed the idea of censoring drivers’ emotional expressions. “I couldn’t even say the f-word. I mean, it’s not that bad, right? The car was not working; it’s effed, and excuse me for the language,” he argued, adding, “Come on, what are we? Five-year-olds?”
Norris supported Verstappen’s view, stressing that restricting team radio would undermine the authentic emotions of the drivers. “When I listen to it, I think it’s cool and exciting,” he stated. “It’s not all nice, gentle language. There are plenty of other sports for those who prefer sanitized commentary.”
