Visa Cash RB driver Yuki Tsunoda has been hit with a part-suspended €40,000 fine for using offensive language in the qualifying session for the Austrian Grand Prix.
The incident happened at the end of the first qualifying segment today when Kick Sauber driver Zhou Guanyu overtook Tsunoda in the pit lane. The Japanese driver sounded annoyed over the team radio, claiming that “”these guys are f***ing retarded.”
The FIA stewards launched an investigation into the incident, and came to the conclusion to fine Tsunoda for using offensive language.
The Visa Cash RB driver will need to pay €20,000 while the other half of the fine is suspended until a repeat offence happens during the remainder of the current season.
In their verdict, the stewards claimed that they “take into account the genuine remorse of the driver” while they also appreciated that Tsunoda was horrified to learn the meaning of the words he used.
The stewards’ verdict read: “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.”
