Racing Star With Grudge Against Reporter Goes To Extreme In Press Conference

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen banned a British journalist from a Formula 1 press conference ahead of this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix.

The Red Bull Racing driver refused to speak to reporters in Suzuka on Thursday until Giles Richards of The Guardian left the room.

“I’m not speaking before he’s leaving,” Verstappen said.

According to Motorsport.com, Verstappen’s vexation dates back to a post-race media session following last year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In that race, the 28-year-old Dutchman fell two points short of winning his fifth consecutive driver’s title following a late-season push.

Richards asked Verstappen about a collision with Mercedes driver George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix on June 1. The collision prompted a 10-second penalty that knocked Verstappen down five places in the finishing order and cost him precious points.