Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has once again delivered a trademark response to a controversial topic, this time regarding the FIA’s newly implemented swearing clampdown for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Known for his colorful language in the kitchen and his fiery temper, Ramsay didn’t hesitate to share his unfiltered opinion on the matter during his appearance at F1’s 2025 season launch, F1 75 Live, held on Tuesday night.

The renowned chef, a staple in the culinary world for his no-nonsense attitude, was asked about the FIA’s stricter guidelines concerning the use of expletives by drivers and personalities in the sport. Ramsay, who is infamous for his own use of expletives during his career, offered a blunt yet humorous take on the issue, which is sure to resonate with fans who appreciate his candidness.

Presenter Jack Whitehall asked Ramsay about the FIA’s new rules, prompting the celebrity chef to offer his trademark candid opinion. Without skipping a beat, Ramsay responded, swearing at the end of his answer before his microphone was cut off.

“Listen, I think it’s an industry language,” Ramsay said. “The fact that these athletes are pushing themselves to the extreme. So sometimes if it comes out, let them be real. Let it go, come on! They’re risking their life every time. They’re traveling over 200 miles an hour. So if the sh** hits the fan…”

While the response was typical Ramsay — unapologetically honest and filled with his usual colorful language — it was met with roaring approval from the crowd. The moment seemed to strike a chord with the audience, especially given the growing frustration among fans over the FIA’s decision to impose stricter language rules in the sport. Ramsay’s response, laden with authenticity, reflected what many fans and critics believe — that drivers and personalities should be allowed to express themselves freely, particularly in the high-pressure, high-risk environment of Formula 1.

Ramsay’s timing was also notable, as he was sitting at the same table as F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, adding a touch of humor to the evening. As if to highlight the growing discontent with the FIA’s new guidelines, the crowd reacted with boos when the FIA logo appeared on screen during the event, signaling their disagreement with the governing body’s approach to controlling language within the sport.

The FIA’s new swearing crackdown has already caused some ripples in the world of motorsport. In the past, drivers and team members have frequently used expletives, especially in moments of high tension or frustration. But under the new guidelines, such language is no longer tolerated in interviews and public appearances. These stricter rules have already led to fines and penalties for several individuals within the motorsport world.

For instance, World Rally Championship driver Adrien Fourmaux was hit with a hefty fine of €10,000 after using an expletive during a TV interview. Fourmaux, speaking about his performance on a particularly challenging rally stage, said, “I had a clean stage, the ruts are really tricky. I think it will be difficult to do a good time. There is a lot of sweeping in the beginning. We f***ed up yesterday.” His candid remarks cost him a significant amount of money, despite the fact that many fans and commentators may have considered his comment to be an honest expression of frustration.

Similarly, Formula 1 stars Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc have faced repercussions for their own use of expletives. Verstappen, who is no stranger to fiery moments, was handed a community service penalty after swearing during a press conference in Singapore. Leclerc, meanwhile, was fined after making a similar slip during a press conference at the Mexico City Grand Prix.

The FIA’s decision to crack down on swearing in motorsport has been largely driven by the concerns of FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who has expressed a desire to clean up the image of motorsport. Ben Sulayem raised concerns about drivers using language that he believed was akin to “rappers,” implying that the tone and style of communication within the sport should be more polished and professional. However, many feel that these restrictions limit the authenticity of drivers and personalities, who often express themselves in moments of extreme stress and passion.

While some may agree with the FIA’s stance on regulating language, there is a growing sentiment that the sport risks losing some of its raw, real edge in favor of a more sanitized, corporate-friendly image. Critics argue that Formula 1, at its core, is a sport about human performance at the highest level, and that includes allowing drivers to express frustration and emotion in the heat of the moment.

Ramsay’s response serves as a reminder that authenticity and passion are central to the spirit of motorsport. The pressure faced by drivers, the risks involved, and the sheer intensity of competition all contribute to the raw emotions that spill over during interviews and public events. By trying to regulate language, the FIA may inadvertently strip the sport of some of its most relatable and compelling moments.

In conclusion, Gordon Ramsay’s reaction to the FIA’s stricter language rules is a perfect reflection of how many people feel about the clampdown. While the FIA’s intentions may be aimed at improving the sport’s image, figures like Ramsay — and fans worldwide — make it clear that sometimes, a little swearing is part of what makes motorsport so exciting and real. Whether or not the FIA will back down remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: in the world of Formula 1, there’s no shortage of strong opinions, and Ramsay’s outburst was just the latest example of that.