During the Singapore GP weekend, the Spaniard complained that the broadcast had focused too much on VIPs and girlfriends in the pits, rather than the on-track action — such as his own charge through the field, Hamilton’s brake issues, or Fernando Alonso closing in behind him.

In a recent interview with Motorsport.com, Locke addressed Sainz’s remarks, explaining that “some of the comments about that were taken a bit out of context."

Locke went on to explain that showing elements beyond the cars and on-track action is necessary to help viewers understand the circuit and highlight some of the features that make each country unique.

Finally, Locke emphasized that the goal with regards to the drivers is “to protect them and showcase them in the best possible way how exceptional they are as athletes.”

In the same interview, Locke also addressed the repeated team radio messages from the two-time world champion aimed at the FOM, intended to put pressure on the stewards after several drivers had cut Turn 1 at the start.

F1’s Director of Broadcast and Media acknowledged that “Fernando is incredible; what he can do in that car and then still have time to think about it is admirable.” However, he also stressed that “we are not his mouthpiece.”