Max Verstappen controversially instructed a journalist to leave a press conference ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, expressing his disapproval of a question posed by the reporter several months prior.
“One second; I’m not speaking until he leaves,” Verstappen began, pointing to Guardian journalist Giles Richards.
“Seriously? Because of last year’s question?” the journalist inquired.
“Yes,” Verstappen replied sternly.
The frosty exchange continued. “You want me to leave?” Richards asked.
“Yeah.”
“Is it just the question I asked you in Abu Dhabi?”
“Get out.”
“Are you really that upset about it?”
“Yes, get out.”
The Question That Provoked Verstappen’s Anger
The question that provoked Verstappen’s anger stemmed from an inquiry Richards made to Verstappen in December of the previous year. The question revolved around the Spanish Grand Prix, where Verstappen collided with George Russell, incurring a ten-second penalty that cost him nine points.
It was during a post-season discussion that Verstappen expressed his annoyance with the line of questioning. “You forget all the other things that happened during my season; the only thing you mention is Barcelona. I knew that would come up. You’re giving me a stupid smile now. The championship is one of 24 rounds, and I also had a lot of early Christmas presents given to me in the second half. You could ask questions about that.”