Verstappen and Red Bull Racing Absent from First FIA Session in Singapore

Traditionally, the Thursday before the race weekend is Formula 1’s media day. On that day, six drivers will speak to the press, divided across two sessions. Verstappen has not been called up this time, although that does not mean he will not speak to the media. Alongside the official session, there are also other sessions with the written press, including GPblog.

Max Verstappen can therefore sit out the press conference. Fernando Alonso, Franco Colapinto and Esteban Ocon will appear in the first press conference. The session begins at 17:30 local time.

The other drivers’ session on Thursday begins at 18:00. Verstappen and his teammate Isack Hadjar will also be absent from this press conference. The FIA has chosen to call up Gabriel Bortoleto, Lando Norris and Liam Lawson.

On Friday, team principals and Formula 1 representatives may attend the FIA session. Red Bull has not been invited to this session either. Alan Permane will be present on behalf of sister team Racing Bulls. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff and McLaren CEO Zak Brown will also attend.

The choice of Wolff is interesting. A lot was expected from Mercedes last weekend, as the team brought a major upgrade to Sepang. The upgrade did not appear to work as expected, allowing Verstappen to take the win. George Russell also retired with power unit problems. As a result, he has to replace his engine and will receive a grid penalty.

Verstappen and Red Bull will speak to the press, including GPblog, in Singapore. The drivers will be present at the circuit on media day to answer questions from the attending press.