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Tsunoda’s clever plan to outwit the FIA’s swear police

Yuki Tsunoda, known in F1 for his, shall we say, passionate radio communications, may have just found the loophole to navigate the FIA's newly implemented "no-swearing" policy.

With drivers now facing potential fines, suspensions, or even points deductions for colorful language following the governing body’s amended behaviour guidelines, the RB driver’s comedic genius has emerged just in time.

“I’ll try to not fudge up and not get fined,” the 24-year-old declared, seemingly replacing his usual expletives with the delightfully sweet alternative.

Tsunoda’s comment during Tuesday’s F1 75 event in London left the media in stitches, showing that even under the FIA’s watchful eye, Tsunoda’s wit remains unfiltered.

The FIA’s No-Swearing Mandate

The FIA’s new rules have sparked plenty of chatter in the F1 community this winter, with drivers wondering just how far they can push the envelope before triggering a penalty.

While it initially seemed that cockpit outbursts might fall under the hammer, the main focus appears to be on drivers’ media appearances.

For Tsunoda, whose radio messages have often been peppered with... let’s call it “enthusiastic feedback,” this clarification likely came as a relief.

Still, the Japanese driver couldn’t resist poking fun at his own reputation.

“In general, in sports, I guess it's not just us swearing,” he explained. “But for us, we have proper training to not swear much. And actually, I don’t swear much recently.”

Of course, the cheeky grin that followed suggested he’s just as surprised as we are by this newfound restraint.

The Importance of Personality

On a more serious note, Tsunoda made it clear that he values self-expression and believes it’s an essential part of the sport.

“As a personal opinion, for me it’s the thing that shows your personality,” he said.

“Obviously, there’s a limit. You will reach that threshold and it can be very toxic—it’s not a word that you want to hear.”

Still, it seems Tsunoda is determined to walk the line—without crossing it.

With his self-awareness on display, he added: “Maybe I will swear more than before because I can’t swear now in racing!”

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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