Introduction
The former world champion’s ultimatum took me by surprise at Suzuka, but there are more pressing matters than an F1 driver being upset with a journalist for doing their job.
Background
In the grand scheme of things, I enjoy a remarkably privileged career, being paid to cover Formula One, a sport I have loved since 1976. Therefore, I am reluctant to complain but was deeply disappointed when Max Verstappen chose to eject me from his press conference on Thursday at the Japanese Grand Prix over a question I asked at the end of last season.
The Incident at Suzuka
Our first face-to-face encounter in 2026 occurred at Suzuka, where it became clear that the Dutchman had an exceptionally strong memory. When he saw me, he stared, smiled, and declared he would not speak until I left. During a brief 30-second exchange, he told me to
“get out”twice. I have never been asked to leave a press conference before. Such an event is extremely rare for a journalist in F1, with very few examples recalled by anyone.
Previous Interactions with Verstappen
In more than a decade of covering the sport, I have interviewed Verstappen about a dozen times, all friendly and good-humored. His outstanding talent has earned praise and admiration in those articles, while criticism has been minimal and only when justified.
The Question That Sparked the Reaction
However, one incident last year appears to have struck a sensitive chord. At the Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen collided with George Russell’s car, for which he received a 10-second penalty. This penalty dropped the then-defending world champion from fifth to 10th place and cost him nine points. By the end of the season, following an extraordinary resurgence— which I heartily praised—and some good fortune as McLaren dropped points in the final races, Verstappen missed out on the title by just two points.
After the season finale in Abu Dhabi, I asked him how he felt about that incident and whether he had any regrets in hindsight, a question that needed to be asked.
Verstappen responded sharply:
“You forget all the other stuff that happened in my season. The only thing you mention is Barcelona. I knew that would come. You’re giving me a stupid grin now.”
I am not sure I had a stupid grin. I was certainly taken aback by the vehemence of his reply, which might have prompted a nervous smile. However, I did not find it amusing, nor was I enjoying myself at his expense.
The Press Conference in Japan
At the press conference in Japan, after being told he would not speak unless I left, I asked if it was because of the question in Abu Dhabi. He confirmed it was. Once again, I was taken aback. I might have had a nervous grin again, who knows? I asked him to confirm if it was because of the Abu Dhabi question about Spain. He replied:
“Yeah.”
I then asked:
“You’re really that upset about it?”
To which he responded:
“Get out. Yeah. Get out.”
Having received the marching orders, I left accordingly. Verstappen had been smiling throughout the exchange. Perhaps he was simply enjoying the power dynamic? The day continued; after all, there are far more serious issues in the world than an F1 driver being upset with a journalist.
Aftermath and Reactions
Within two hours, someone had found my email and sent an abusive message:
“You’re the problem. You’re the toxic dipshit who’s responsible for the whole British bias in F1. You’re the worst.”
As abuse goes, at least the apostrophes were correctly placed and it was not written in green crayon. I have not looked at X and have no plans to do so.
Colleagues in the press pack were universally shocked and expressed concern for my well-being. One remarked with arch disdain over the behaviour:
“Classless.”
My well-being is fine. If anything, the most uncomfortable part is now writing about it in the first person. A journalist never wants to be the story, even if it feels unavoidable now.
Reflection
The incident and its fallout are regrettable, particularly due to accusations of bias. Over the years, I have been accused of anti-Lewis Hamilton, anti-Sebastian Vettel, and anti-various-driver bias. Reporting as honestly and fairly as possible remains my single overarching aim.
I continue to admire Verstappen and hope we can enjoy a better relationship going forward. Sometimes, difficult and awkward questions must be asked. That is the job that comes with the privilege.
