FIA makes decision on Tsunoda after alleged use of ableist slur

Yuki Tsunoda has learned the outcome of an investigation into his alleged use of ableist language during qualifying for the Austrian Grand Prix.

The 24-year-old was found guilty of breaching article 12.2.1.k of the FIA ​​International Sporting Code.

The Japanese driver was fined €40,000, of which €20,000 is suspended for the remainder of the 2024 season, provided that no similar offences are committed.

The RB driver was caught saying “are these guys really retarded” on the team radio about Zhou Guanyu passing him on the pit lane during Q1.

According to the official decision document, the stewards said: “During Q1, while car 22 was queuing in the fast lane and another car moved into the fast lane in front of it, the driver was heard making a statement on the team radio using offensive language.

“During the hearing, the driver apologized and explained that as English was not his first language, he had not known until the end of the hearing what the words meant used in English.

“He said he was horrified when he heard about it. He maintained that his understanding of the words was different, but acknowledged that this should not be taken as an excuse for what he had done.

“The stewards appreciated the driver's honesty, but insisted the words used were offensive and completely inappropriate. The fact of having used such words on a publicly accessible platform amounted to misconduct as defined in Article 20 of the International Sporting Code.

“Given the circumstances, the commissioners believe that a stiff fine is required, but also take into account the driver's sincere remorse and his offer to publicly apologize and decide for these reasons to suspend part of the fine imposed. »