Fernando Alonso HITS OUT at Max Verstappen over swearing row and insists that F1 drivers must live up to their ‘role model’ status – after fellow drivers backed penalised world champion

Fernando Alonso has issued a stark warning to Max Verstappen over his X-rated language as the Red Bull ace continues to grow agitated by team struggles.

The defending world champion was recently reprimanded ahead of the Singapore GP for swearing during a televised press conference when questioned over his qualifying performance at the previous race.

Verstappen was slapped with a punishment by the FIA equivalent to the sport’s version of community service that is hoped will serve as a deterrent against other future outbursts.

The majority of drivers have supported Verstappen over the incident with those on the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA) Whatsapp group believing the sanction is draconian and urged the Dutchman not to fulfil his public service punishment.

However, Alonso has now broken ranks by going against his fellow drivers and issued a warning to Verstappen over his language.

Fernando Alonso (right) has broken ranks by warning Max Verstappen (left) over swearing

Alonso (left) believes Verstappen (middle) must be careful about the language he uses at races

Lewis Hamilton is among the drivers who have supported Verstappen after his FIA sanction

Alonso has endured a mixed season at Aston Martin, but his opinion will carry weight as the most experienced driver on the grid.

Warning Verstappen, Alonso said: ‘The fans give us a huge responsibility because we are role models for many people. So we have to behave well.

‘You have to be prepared to be a role model when you want to be, and when you don’t want to be, as well.

‘When you want to say something that is not correct, you have to control yourself, put on the brakes, and be politically correct.

‘At this level, you realise that a lot of people are looking up to us. If you are a driver or someone else with a public function, you just have to behave.’

Swearing is often bleeped out during broadcast of races as drivers vent their frustration at midrace struggles and many have defended Verstappen’s latest outburst.

The three-time world champion remains top of the drivers championship standings, but is winless since the Spanish GP and his lead over Lando Norris has been cut to just 52 points with six races left.

Alonso has endured a mixed season at Aston Martin as the team look to make improvements

While understanding the fierce competitiveness of the sport, Alonso continued to explain that drivers have certain standards they must uphold both on and off the track.

He added: ‘The fans have to believe in you. They tell you “You are my inspiration, you never give up, you are a fighter”.

‘This reminds us that there are so many fans in the world following Formula One and we must always keep that in mind.

‘The fans give you so much love, motivation, but that comes with responsibility.’