Why Verstappen removed a journalist from his Japan F1 media session

Max Verstappen refused to begin his pre-race media session at the Japanese Grand Prix until a specific journalist from The Guardian left the room, citing lingering anger over a question asked after his title defeat in Abu Dhabi the previous season. The incident highlights the four-time champion's intense competitive mindset and his occasionally strained relationship with the media, even as he and Red Bull seek to rebound from a difficult start to the 2026 season.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's direct and public action underscores the long-lasting impact of last year's championship heartbreak and his specific sensitivity to how his performance is analyzed. It reveals a driver for whom every point and incident matters deeply, and who controls his narrative on his own terms, even if it means creating an awkward confrontation. This mindset is a key part of his relentless drive but also shapes his interactions off the track.

The details:

• The confrontation occurred in Red Bull's hospitality unit at Suzuka on Thursday. As the session was about to start, Verstappen interrupted, stating, "I'm not speaking before he's leaving."
• The targeted journalist had asked Verstappen a question after the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where he lost the title to Lando Norris by just two points. The question focused on whether he regretted his collision with George Russell in Spain earlier that season.
• A brief, tense exchange followed at Suzuka, where Verstappen confirmed the reason was "because of the question last year" and twice told the journalist to "get out" before proceeding.
• Historical Context: Verstappen had previously admitted the Spain incident with Russell was the "only point of criticism" he had about his 2025 campaign, arguing it stemmed from how much he cared about winning.
• Session Aftermath: Once the journalist left, the session continued without issue, covering topics like his recent Nürburgring victory (and subsequent disqualification) and a last-minute F1 rule change for qualifying in Japan.

What's next:

The immediate focus shifts back to on-track performance at the Japanese Grand Prix. Verstappen and Red Bull are under pressure after a tricky start to 2026, with the driver sitting eighth and the team fifth in the standings. Suzuka presents a critical opportunity to reset their season. While the media incident will fuel discussion, Verstappen's primary goal is to channel that same intense focus into a much-needed strong result for his championship campaign.