Max Verstappen TRAPPED by journalists in paddock after refusing to speak in press conference due to FIA ban
Max Verstappen was surrounded by over a dozen journalists after he decided to hold a press conference in the middle of the paddock.
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Max Verstappen, Max Verstappen surrounded by journalists in Singapore GP paddock (images via IMAGO/@erikvhaven at X)
Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA has imposed a ban on swear words for all drivers. Max Verstappen became the first driver to violate this ban and was subsequently given a penalty. Now, the Dutch driver has decided to speak as less as possible in all FIA events including the post-Qualifying press conference.
Max Verstappen qualified on the front row for the Singapore GP this weekend. As such, the three-time world champion was part of the press conference after the session which comprises of the Top 3 finishers. However, Verstappen told the journalists that he’d do a press conference outside in the paddock to avoid another swear ban violation.
Don't ask me anything in the press conference, we'll do it outside.Max Verstappen said in the post-Qualifying press conference
Subsequently, reporters surrounded the reigning world champion in the middle of the paddock as soon as the press conference ended. Max Verstappen seemed happy to answer all questions without having to censor himself. The enormous circle around the Dutch driver created a big scene, something which the FIA might need to address.
“Don't ask me anything in the press conference, we'll do it outside.”
— RBR News ???? (@redbulletin) September 21, 2024
And now he’s being trapped by all the journalists??
[? @ErikvHaren] #SingaporeGP pic.twitter.com/4nEUyWsxW8
Max Verstappen fears more penalties over swearing ban
Before leaving the press conference, Verstappen was asked about the changes Red Bull made to the RB20 after Friday practice. The Dutch driver claimed that a lot was tweaked with the car. However, Max Verstappen refused to elaborate due to the fear of being handed another penalty. The 26-year-old insisted that this was the only reason for not describing the changes and he had nothing against the journalist.
A lot... No. I might get fined or get an extra day [of community service]... This is not towards you, don't worry.Max Verstappen stated
Max when asked how much changes on the car overnight: "A lot."
— RBR News ???? (@redbulletin) September 21, 2024
When he asked to elaborate: "No. I might get fined or get an extra day [of community service]."
He also tells the host "This is not towards you, don't worry."
???
[@LukeSmithF1] #SingaporeGP
Certainly, Max Verstappen has continued to show that he is not happy with the FIA’s swearing ban. The Dutch driver’s actions could force the sports governing body to make changes in its decision. However, fans can expect to see some more drama regarding this situation on Sunday.
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Armaan Agarwal
(2329 Articles Published)