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

Max Verstappen Expelled British Journalist During Heated Press Conference Clash

Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, dismissed a British journalist from his press conference during a tense encounter ahead of the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. The incident unfolded as Verstappen repeatedly directed the reporter, Giles Richards of the Guardian, to exit the Red Bull hospitality area three times. “I’m not speaking before he leaves,” the Dutch driver declared, signaling his frustration.

The dispute resurfaced from a prior altercation during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December 2025, the final race of that year’s season. Verstappen had narrowly missed securing a fifth consecutive title, falling two points short to Lando Norris. Richards had previously questioned Verstappen about his performance in Barcelona, where a collision with George Russell cost him critical points. This prompted a sharp retort from the Red Bull driver in the aftermath of the race.

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

At the recent press conference, Verstappen spotted Richards among the media and swiftly ordered him to leave. When Richards hesitated, he responded with a surprised “Seriously?” The exchange escalated as the journalist moved to retrieve his equipment, continuing the dialogue. “You want me to leave? It’s just the question I asked you in Abu Dhabi? About Spain?” Richards challenged, prompting Verstappen to finalize his decision.

After a 30-second confrontation, Richards exited the room, expressing exasperation through a raised eyebrow. Verstappen then proceeded to address the remaining reporters for the next 10 minutes, his focus undeterred by the earlier tension. The incident highlights the lingering frustration between the driver and the journalist, rooted in their earlier disagreement over the Barcelona incident and its impact on Verstappen’s title aspirations.