“GET OUT NOW!” — Max Verstappen EXPLODES in furious Japan F1 showdown, ejecting shocked journalist from media session over painful Abu Dhabi question that still haunts the four-time champion.

SUZUKA, Japan — In one of the most extraordinary moments in recent Formula 1 history, Max Verstappen refused to begin his pre-race media session on Thursday at the Japanese Grand Prix until a veteran British journalist was physically removed from the room.

The dramatic confrontation unfolded inside Red Bull’s hospitality unit at Suzuka Circuit when the four-time world champion spotted The Guardian’s Giles Richards among the assembled press.

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Verstappen immediately halted proceedings with a calm but icy command: “One second — I’m not speaking before he’s leaving.”

When Richards asked if he was serious and whether the issue stemmed from a question posed during last year’s post-race press conference in Abu Dhabi, Verstappen replied curtly: “Yeah.”

The exchange escalated quickly. Richards referenced the controversial Spanish Grand Prix incident from 2025 — a clash with George Russell that many believe cost Verstappen crucial points in his ultimately unsuccessful bid for a fifth consecutive drivers’ title. He finished the season just two points behind McLaren’s Lando Norris.

Verstappen didn’t hesitate: “Get out.”

Even as Richards pressed further — “You’re really that upset about it?” — the Dutch driver repeated coldly: “Get out. Yeah. Get out.”

Only after Richards gathered his belongings and left the room did Verstappen declare: “Now we can start.” The session then proceeded as normal, but the damage — and the headlines — had already been made.

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Lingering bitterness from 2025 title heartbreak

The incident dates back to December 2025’s Abu Dhabi season finale. Verstappen won the race but fell agonizingly short of the championship. The question from Richards apparently touched a raw nerve regarding the Spain clash and its impact on the final standings.

Verstappen has never been shy about his frustrations with certain sections of the media, particularly British outlets, which he has accused of bias in the past. However, directly ejecting a journalist mid-session is unprecedented for a driver of his stature.

Paddock reaction has been swift and divided. Some praise “Mad Max” for his no-nonsense authenticity and refusal to tolerate what he sees as provocative questioning. Others criticize the move as thin-skinned and unprofessional, arguing that world champions should handle press scrutiny with more composure.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner declined immediate comment, while FIA officials have not yet addressed whether any protocol was breached.

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Suzuka weekend overshadowed

The drama has completely overshadowed the usual pre-race buildup at one of F1’s most iconic venues. Suzuka, with its flowing high-speed corners, elevation changes, and demanding 130R corner, remains a favorite among drivers — but all eyes are now on Verstappen’s mindset heading into Friday practice.

Red Bull enters the weekend in a challenging position. After mixed results in Australia and China, the team knows it must improve rapidly if Verstappen is to mount another title challenge in 2026.

Verstappen himself has been characteristically blunt about the car’s performance, but Thursday’s outburst suggests deeper frustrations may be simmering beneath the surface.

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Who is Giles Richards?

Giles Richards, a respected and experienced F1 correspondent for The Guardian, has covered the sport for many years. He was not available for immediate comment following the incident.

The journalist’s question in Abu Dhabi focused on whether the points lost in Spain ultimately prevented Verstappen from securing a fifth straight crown — a sensitive topic given how close the 2025 title fight became.

What happens next?

As the Japanese Grand Prix weekend unfolds, the paddock is buzzing with speculation. Will this incident affect Verstappen’s focus on track? Could it spark further tension between drivers and media? And how will the FIA and Formula 1’s commercial rights holders respond to such a public confrontation?

For now, all attention turns to the track. Suzuka has a habit of producing unforgettable racing, but Thursday’s events have already ensured this weekend will be remembered for reasons beyond lap times.

Max Verstappen remains one of the most dominant and polarizing figures in the sport. Whether this fiery display fuels another stellar performance at Suzuka or signals deeper unrest within the Red Bull camp remains to be seen.

The championship battle is still young, but the psychological games have clearly begun.