Tsunoda apologetic but handed big fine for offensive radio comment

RB driver Yuki Tsunoda has been hit with a 40,000 euro fine by the FIA for using offensive language during qualifying for the Austrian Grand Prix.

The incident occurred towards the end of Q1 when Tsunoda was overtaken by Sauber’s Zhou Guanyu in the pitlane.

Frustrated by the Chinese driver’s maneuver, Tsunoda told his RB race engineer over the radio: “These guys are f***ing retarded”.

The derogatory remark was inevitably brought to the attention of the FIA stewards who reviewed the incident and deemed Tsunoda's comments a violation of the International Sporting Code, which prohibits offensive and inappropriate language.

Summoned to the stewards, Tsunoda was apologetic during his hearing with the latter, explaining that English was not his native language and he did not grasp the full weight of the slur.

• Read also: Tsunoda under investigation for discriminatory language

However, the stewards remained firm, acknowledging his honesty but emphasizing the severity of the offense.

“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,” the stewards wrote.

“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 Tsunoda's remorse and his offer for a public apology, the stewards imposed a 40,000 euro fine, with half suspended for the remainder of the 2024 season, contingent upon no further infractions.

“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,” the officials added.

Later in the evening, Tsunoda took to Instagram to express his regret.

“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,” he said.

“I now have a better understanding for 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.”

Tsunoda will start the Austrian Grand Prix from 14th position on the grid after failing to progress beyond Q2.

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