F1 News: Yuki Tsunoda receives heavy FIA penalty after radio incident

Yuki Tsunoda was given a heavy fine following an investigation into his language at the Austrian Grand Prix.

The Visa Cash App RB driver was fined 40,000 euros, half of which will be imposed on him for the rest of the season unless he breaks the rules again.

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The FIA ​​declared that driver number 22 Tsunoda had breached Article 12.2.1 k) of the International Sporting Code due to his “inappropriate comments over the team radio”.

After examining the evidence, the sports body stated: “During the hearing, the driver apologised profusely and explained that, as English was not his first language, he had only learned after the meeting what the meaning of the words used was in the English language.”

How did the FIA ​​react to Tsunoda’s comments?

The 24-year-old was known for his foul-mouthed manner during races in the past, but has toned this down considerably in recent seasons.

The report continued: “He said he was horrified when he learned this. He claimed he had misunderstood the words but acknowledged that this should not be considered an excuse for his actions.

“The race management appreciates the driver’s honesty, but stresses that the words used were offensive and completely inappropriate.

“The use of such words on a platform accessible to the public constitutes misconduct within the meaning of Article 20 of the International Sporting Code.”

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