Suzuka, Japan — Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen sparked controversy on Thursday ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, refusing to start his press conference until an English journalist left the room.
The Red Bull driver, seated in the team’s hospitality suite in Suzuka, pointed directly at the journalist from The Guardian and declared, “I’m not speaking before he’s leaving.” When asked whether this was related to a question the reporter had asked him last season, Verstappen confirmed, replying sharply, “Yes. Get out.” The journalist complied, and Verstappen resumed the press conference.
The incident traces back to the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Verstappen narrowly lost the championship to Lando Norris by two points. The question in question focused on the impact of a penalty Verstappen had received for colliding with Mercedes driver George Russell during the Spanish Grand Prix — an event that contributed to his championship loss.
The Red Bull star’s unusual demand highlights ongoing tensions between Verstappen and certain members of the media over discussions of past controversies. Once the journalist left, Verstappen proceeded with the press conference as planned, addressing other topics and preparations for the upcoming race.
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Fans and journalists alike were left stunned by the rare display of on-camera defiance, prompting debate about drivers’ relationships with the press in Formula 1.
