Max Verstappen Dismisses British Journalist During Press Conference Over Past Dispute

Tension escalates after previous conflict in Abu Dhabi

During the Japanese Grand Prix press conference, Max Verstappen abruptly dismissed British journalist Giles Richards from the Red Bull hospitality area. The four-time world champion told the reporter to ‘get out’ three times, stating, ‘I’m not speaking before he leaves.’

“You forget about all the other stuff that happened in my season. The only thing that you mention is Barcelona. I knew that would come. And you are giving me a stupid grin now. It is part of racing. You live and learn.”

The incident traces back to a disagreement during the 2025 season’s final race in Abu Dhabi, where Verstappen fell short of a fifth consecutive title to Lando Norris by two points. Richards had questioned whether Verstappen’s collision with George Russell in Spain, which cost him nine points, was responsible for his loss.

At the latest press conference, Verstappen recognized Richards as he prepared for his routine briefing and ordered him to leave. When asked to depart, Richards responded with, ‘Seriously?’ The argument continued as he moved to retrieve his recording equipment.

“You want me to leave? It’s just the question I asked you in Abu Dhabi? About Spain?”

After the 30-second exchange, Richards exited the suite, eye-rolling as he went. Verstappen then proceeded to answer questions from the remaining media for the following 10 minutes.