The numbers
In a shocking turn of events at the Japanese Grand Prix on March 26, 2026, reigning Formula One champion Max Verstappen ejected journalist Giles Richards from a press conference, a rare incident in the world of F1 journalism. The confrontation stemmed from a question Richards posed to Verstappen regarding a controversial incident with George Russell during the 2025 season finale in Abu Dhabi, where Verstappen received a 10-second penalty that ultimately cost him crucial points in the championship.
As the press conference commenced, Verstappen made his feelings clear, stating, “Get out. Yeah. Get out,” when Richards attempted to engage him. This abrupt dismissal not only left Richards stunned but also raised concerns among his colleagues in the press pack, who expressed shock and concern for his wellbeing following the incident. The atmosphere in the room shifted dramatically as Verstappen refused to start the conference until Richards exited.
Richards, who has covered Formula One for over a decade and has interviewed Verstappen approximately a dozen times, described his feelings post-incident as “deeply disappointed.” He acknowledged the tension surrounding the question he asked, which was not only about the content but also the manner in which it was delivered. Despite the altercation, Richards stated, “I still admire Verstappen and I hope we can enjoy a better relationship in the future,” indicating his desire to move past the incident.
The question that triggered the ejection was about Verstappen’s regret over the incident with Russell, which had been a hot topic in the F1 community. Verstappen’s reaction was reportedly fueled by the way Richards framed the question rather than its substance. This incident marks the first time Richards has been asked to leave a press conference, highlighting the unusual nature of such confrontations in the sport.
Following the press conference, Richards received an abusive email from an anonymous sender, accusing him of fostering a “British bias” in F1 journalism. The email read, “You’re the problem. You’re the toxic dipshit who’s responsible for the whole British bias in F1. You’re the worst.” Such hostility underscores the intense emotions surrounding F1 and the pressures journalists face when covering the sport.
Verstappen’s actions have sparked a broader discussion about the relationship between drivers and the media, particularly in high-stakes environments like Formula One. Colleagues and observers have noted that while tensions can run high, incidents of this nature are extremely rare. The press plays a crucial role in shaping narratives within the sport, and such confrontations can have lasting implications for both journalists and athletes.
As the dust settles on this incident, many in the F1 community are left wondering how this will affect Richards’ future interactions with Verstappen and the broader media landscape. Observers are keen to see if this incident will lead to a more significant dialogue about the treatment of journalists in the sport, as well as the pressures faced by drivers in the public eye. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential repercussions for Verstappen or changes in press conference protocols following this incident.
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