The real reason Verstappen kicked out journalist in Suzuka media clash
Photo: Race Pictures
Updated:
6 Comments
Tobia is a Formula 1 journalist at GPblog with experience at international circuits. Since 2022, he has covered Grands Prix across Europe, delivering reliable coverage and insights from the paddock.
Max Verstappen’s decision to deliberately pause his media session in Suzuka due to the presence of a specific journalist has sparked widespread attention.
| Key point | Summary |
| Media standoff | Verstappen refused to begin his Suzuka media session until a specific journalist left, referencing a past question that irritated him |
| Root cause | The tension dates back to Abu Dhabi, when he was asked if his clash with Russell in Spain cost him the title to Norris |
| Escalation | The situation intensified in Suzuka, with Verstappen repeatedly urging the journalist to leave the room |
The four-time world champion declined to start his press session, insisting, “I’m not speaking before he’s leaving,” as he alluded to a question from a Guardian journalist in Abu Dhabi shortly after losing the title to Lando Norris — a moment that clearly left a mark.
At the time, Verstappen had been asked whether he regretted the clash in Spain with George Russell, and whether that incident ultimately played a decisive role in handing the championship to Norris.
In that race, the Dutchman came into contact with the Mercedes driver in the closing stages in a move many viewed as intentional, receiving a penalty that dropped him from fifth to tenth and cost him valuable points in the title fight.
ADVERTISEMENT
Photo: Red Bull Content Pool
Read also
"You forget all the other stuff that happened in my season. The only thing you mention is Barcelona. I knew that would come," the Dutchman replied back then.
He then added: "You're giving me a stupid grin now. I don't know. It's part of racing in the end. You live and learn. The championship is one of 24 rounds. I've also had a lot of early Christmas presents given to me in the second half, so you can also question that."
The two reportedly exchanged words in Suzuka, with the four-time world champion repeatedly urging the journalist to leave the room.
ADVERTISEMENT
Don’t miss GPblog in Google
Mark us as a preferred source and our articles will appear more often at the top of Top Stories.
Add as a preferred / source on Google