Horner defends Vettel after swearing outburst

Sebastian Vettel should be applauded for speaking his mind about the noise of the new power units according to Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. The German described the noise as “shit” and said it’s quieter than being in a bar.” His use of a swear word is believed to have angered FIA president Jean Todt who, in 2012, wrote to all the drivers asking them to refrain from using bad language. Horner however says he’s heard nothing from the FIA about the matter and says Vettel’s outburst was a good thing. “No-one’s spoken to me about it over the weekend. He should be applauded for saying what he thinks,” said the Briton. “We live in quite a politically-correct world but part of Red Bull’s philosophy, which has sometimes been quite uncomfortable, is to allow the drivers freedom of expression. “Sebastian has expressed his opinion and I don’t think anyone would blame a driver for making an opinion. He’s not alone. There are different opinions and he’s entitled to his.” Reports in the media suggest Todt could punish Vettel under a regulation which stipulates that drivers “cannot bring the sport into disrepute”, which includes openly criticising it.

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