Max Verstappen reignites war with FIA after calling out driver who escaped punishment at Mexico Grand Prix

Reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has continued his war of words with the sport’s governing body, the FIA, ahead of this weekend’s race in Brazil.

After two dramatic races in the United States and Mexico, the 20 drivers will battle again this weekend as the Brazilian Grand Prix takes place at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace.

Ahead of the race, Verstappen reignited his war with the FIA during Thursday’s media day press conference.

Prior to the Singapore Grand Prix in September, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem spoke about the foul language being used within the sport.

Verstappen then swore during a press conference, saying: “The car was f**ked.” As a result, the Dutchman was ordered to do community service.

On Thursday, the 27-year-old questioned why Ferrari star Charles Leclerc went unpunished after saying the word ‘F**k’ following the Mexico City Grand Prix.

Verstappen said: “I can’t say the word because I’ll probably get another [penalty]. Apparently, it only counts for me anyway because after the race in Mexico, someone was swearing. I didn’t hear anything from it.

“So it’s better I don’t swear again.”

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The Red Bull superstar has also faced critism over his driving style in recent weeks after a couple of close battles with McLaren driver Lando Norris.

Asked if he would change the way he drives, the three-time F1 world champion replied: “It's my 10th year in F1. I think I know what I'm doing. I have my opinions, I don't need to share them.

“It is never going to be perfect because even if you remove rules, if you get into a battle you want more rules because it's not clear what is allowed or not, then when you have too many rules you want less rules.”

Verstappen added: “Do I think it's over-regulated? Probably yes. In general the rule book is only getting bigger and bigger every year and I don't think that's always the right way.”

Heading into the weekend’s Verstappen is currently 47 points ahead of Norris in the standings.