It all started with a bad word uttered in a press conference during the Singapore GP, an episode that led to Max Verstappen serving a sentence of “community service”. What seemed like a simple punishment, however, turned into an opportunity for discussion and inspiration, thanks to the day spent by Verstappen with the young people of the Kigali Polytechnic, in Rwanda.
Verstappen's punishment: from swearing to community service
Max Verstappen has finally served his sentence of “community service” imposed by the FIA stewards. The reigning world champion, in fact, had been penalized for having uttered a swear word in a press conference, an episode that had sparked controversy and debates on the role and conduct of drivers on and off the track.
The punishment, which had initially raised doubts, materialized in Rwanda, where Verstappen participated in an event organized by the FIA at the Kigali Polytechnic. More than a simple punishment, this experience turned into an opportunity for comparison and growth for all participants.
An afternoon with the young people of the Kigali Polytechnic
Verstappen spent an afternoon with the students of the engineering faculty, interacting with the young aspiring technicians and drivers from Rwanda. The event was made even more special by the presentation of a small cross car designed and built by the students themselves for the occasion. The Dutch driver, after driving the vehicle, said he was enthusiastic about the commitment and talent shown by the boys.
“It’s my first time in this country, which I’m getting to know,” Verstappen said. “I think it’s fantastic to see how accessible motorsport can be, and I hope that this inspires young people to follow their dreams, whether as a driver or as an engineer. It doesn’t matter where you come from, everything is possible.”
Ben Sulayem: “An example for the future of Formula 1”
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, praised Verstappen's attitude and highlighted how this experience could become a model for the future. "Verstappen really kept his promise," he said. "He was there with the girls and boys who built the car, and he inspired them with his presence and his enthusiasm."
According to Ben Sulayem, such initiatives should not be seen only as punishments for drivers, but as an opportunity to give back to the community. “I believe that every single driver should offer a service like this. It is a gesture that reinforces the values of diversity and growth, which are fundamental to motorsport. In the future, we could even include these activities in the Superlicense contracts, so that they become an integral part of a driver’s role.”
A role model for global motorsport
The Rwanda initiative highlighted the positive impact that drivers can have outside of racing. Verstappen’s presence at Kigali Polytechnic not only brought joy to the young participants, but also demonstrated how motorsport can be a vehicle for inspiration and inclusion, regardless of geographical or economic context.
With the support of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA could transform these experiences into a regular event, fostering a stronger bond between pilots and communities around the world.
Source statements: FormulaPassion
