The Formula 1 world was thrown into fresh controversy this week after Sky Sports handed former IndyCar star Danica Patrick a hefty fine for comments she made about Lewis Hamilton during a live broadcast. The remarks, described as “unfiltered” and “unnecessarily personal” by network executives, were delivered during post-race analysis at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Patrick’s words quickly went viral, dividing fans between those who called it honest commentary and those who saw it as an unprofessional attack.

Former F1 champion Jenson Button wasted no time jumping into the debate. Speaking on a motorsport podcast, Button called the punishment “ridiculous” and accused Sky Sports of caving to public pressure rather than defending open discussion. He even went further, saying bluntly: “It’s her karma—if Lewis can handle the criticism, the network should too.”

According to Button, Patrick’s role as a commentator is to speak her mind, not tiptoe around controversial topics. “Fans want raw opinions, not scripted PR lines,” he said, noting that Hamilton himself has faced—and dished out—plenty of strong words over his career. Button argued that silencing commentators sets a dangerous precedent in a sport where rivalries and emotion are part of the spectacle.

Sky Sports has defended its decision, insisting the fine was about “maintaining professional standards” rather than censorship. In a short statement, the network said Patrick’s comments “crossed the line into personal territory” and violated its broadcast guidelines. However, they declined to specify the exact amount of the fine, fueling speculation online.

Fans were quick to take sides. Supporters of Patrick argued that her insights come from a place of deep racing experience, and that holding back emotions makes F1 coverage “sterile.” Critics countered that there’s a difference between strong opinion and disrespect, especially when discussing one of the sport’s most decorated drivers.

Hamilton, notably, has stayed silent on the matter. Sources close to the Mercedes star say he’s focused on the next race and unlikely to respond publicly. Some believe his silence is a subtle show of class; others see it as a quiet acknowledgment that the incident isn’t worth fueling further.

Still, the controversy has reignited debates about freedom of speech in sports broadcasting. Should commentators be allowed to speak without fear of punishment, or must they adhere strictly to corporate guidelines? For now, the F1 paddock remains as divided as ever—proof that even off-track, the battles are just as intense.