Max Verstappen gets British journalist THROWN OUT of a press conference after taking exception to his questions and ‘stupid grin’ last year

Max Verstappen ejects British journalist from press conference after heated exchange

During a tense press conference ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, Max Verstappen expelled a British journalist from the Red Bull hospitality area after a sharp confrontation. The four-time world champion instructed Giles Richards of the Guardian to leave three times, declaring, “I’m not speaking before he leaves.”

Roots of the conflict trace back to Abu Dhabi showdown

The incident was sparked by a disagreement from the previous December, during the final race of the 2025 season in Abu Dhabi. Verstappen had lost the championship to Lando Norris by two points, and Richards had questioned whether his collision with George Russell in Spain—costing him nine points—was the reason for his failure to secure a fifth consecutive title.

“Do you forget about all the other events that shaped my season? The only thing you focus on is Barcelona. I knew that would come. And now you’re giving me that stupid grin. It’s part of racing. You live and learn.”

Richards, who regularly covers races for the Guardian, had previously asked Verstappen about his aggressive behavior in Spain. This time, Verstappen grew increasingly irate, ordering the journalist to leave as he prepared for his routine media session. When Richards questioned his demand, Verstappen insisted, “You want me to leave? It’s just the question I asked you in Abu Dhabi? About Spain?”

After a 30-second exchange, Richards exited the room with a dismissive expression, while Verstappen proceeded to field questions from the rest of the media for the next ten minutes, seemingly unfazed by the earlier altercation.