Red Bull’s Max Verstappen staged his own form of protest against the FIA following the Formula 1 governing body’s ruling against him for swearing.
The FIA requested Verstappen complete “some work of public interest” over the use of foul language.
Asked why he was out-qualified by team-mate Sergio Perez at Baku during a press conference, the Dutchman said “as soon as I went into qualifying, I knew the car was f***ed.”
READ MORE: Max Verstappen punished over Singapore F1 swearing incident
After qualifying second for the Singapore Grand Prix, the Dutchman remained tight-lipped, providing short, concise answers to questions.
Verstappen’s longest answer was his first as he said “I’m very happy with second today after [Friday]. And I want to say also a big thank you to the team for continuing to push throughout the weekend to make the car better for me. So, yeah, very happy to be on the front row.”
Red Bull was way off the pace during the opening day of practice and Verstappen was resigned to 15th in FP2.
Asked what changed overnight he replied: “a lot,” before being asked to elaborate.
“No, I might get fined or get an extra day,” he said.
After further questioning during the press conference, Verstappen responded with another quip.
“I would prefer if you ask these questions outside the room.”
It was clear from the Dutchman’s demeanour that his actions were a deliberate response to the FIA’s sweainrg sanction.
Whether this will continue to Sunday’s post-race press conference, should Verstappen get on the podium, remains to be seen.
On Saturday he said, “I’m answering. Just not a lot. Problem with my voice.”
Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton stand by Max Verstappen
Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton expressed their support towards the Dutchman with both drivers believing the FIA’s stance was unnecessary.
Hamilton, who has been critical of the phrasing used by the FIA in relation to its swearing clampdown, said “I think it’s a bit of a joke, to be honest.
“This is the pinnacle of the sport. Mistakes are made. I certainly wouldn’t be doing it, and I hope Max doesn’t do it.”
Verstappen was far more chirpy in Parc Ferme, saying “I think the whole of qualifying actually went quite well.
“We managed to improve the car run after run, already with FP3. I’m happy to be on the front row, if you look at where we came from yesterday.
“I’ll take second, I’m happy with that.
“Tomorrow of course a bit difficult to say. Singapore, a lot of things can happen, but at least we have a shot at it like this.”
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