F1 News: Yuki Tsunoda Sees Punishment for Offensive Language During Austrian Grand Prix Qualifying

In a recent incident at the Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix qualifying held at the Red Bull Ring in Austria, driver Yuki Tsunoda faced penalties for using offensive language over his team’s radio communication. During the heat of the session, as vehicles lined up in the pitlane, Tsunoda, driving for Red Bull’s sister team RB, was overtaken by Zhou Guanyu of Sauber.

In his frustration, Tsunoda exclaimed over the radio, “these guys are f***ing retarded,” a comment that immediately triggered scrutiny.

Subsequently, the FIA stewards summoned the Japanese driver to address his use of the ableist slur, which violated Article 12.2.1k of the International Sporting Code concerning inappropriate comments made on team radio. The ensuing penalty for this breach involved a €40,000 fine, half of which is to be paid immediately while the remainder is suspended. The conditional suspension of the fine stipulates no repeat of similar offenses for the duration of the 2024 season.

Following the event, Tsunoda expressed deep remorse over his choice of words. He explained his reaction came from a place of misunderstanding, primarily due to language barriers, as he did not fully grasp the offensive nature of the terms used. Tsunoda said:

“Hello, I wanted to say big apologies for what I said in the radio today. Obviously, I didn’t use it intentionally and was completely misunderstanding from myself that exact meaning of it. I now have a better understanding of what the word means and am very apologetic for what I said. This type of language has no place and is not tolerated and for that, I am sorry.”

In their verdict, the stewards acknowledged Tsunoda’s immediate willingness to apologize and understand the gravity of his words, though they emphasized the inappropriate and offensive nature of the comment. The official statement clarified:

“The Stewards heard from the driver of Car 22 (Yuki Tsunoda), team representative
and reviewed team radio evidence.

“During Q1 when Car 22 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.

“During the hearing the driver was very apologetic and explained that because English is not his first language he was unaware until after the session what the meaning of the words used is in the English language. He said that he was horrified when he learned this. He contended that his understanding of the words was different, but acknowledged that this should not be considered as an excuse for what he did.

“The Stewards appreciate the honesty of the driver, but reinforce the fact the words used are offensive and wholly inappropriate. To have used such words over a platform that is available to the public amounted to misconduct as defined in 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.

“Competitors are reminded that they have the right to appeal certain decisions of the Stewards, in accordance with Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Chapter 4 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules, within the applicable time limits. Decisions of the Stewards are taken independently of the FIA and are based solely on the relevant regulations, guidelines and evidence presented.”