Overview
- Max Verstappen refused to start a Red Bull media session until Guardian journalist Giles Richards left during Thursday’s Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.
- He later told Dutch broadcaster Viaplay that his issue was the reporter’s tone, saying Richards laughed and showed intent to provoke.
- Richards denied mocking Verstappen and called the reaction disproportionate to a legitimate question about the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix collision with George Russell.
- German outlet BILD, cited by GPFans and the Mirror, reported team boss Laurent Mekies met Verstappen and said Red Bull is not a team that removes journalists from hospitality.
- Autosport reported the team disagreed with the decision and aims to clear the air with all parties before the Miami Grand Prix.