Kulthard is surprised by the silence of the FIA.

      In the Up To Speed podcast, former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard, reflecting on relationships with the press, recalled the recent conflict between Max Verstappen and journalist Giles Richards…

      David Coulthard: “Honestly, I’m a bit surprised that the FIA has remained silent on this matter. No sanctions, no warnings, although if Max had just cursed, he would have been fined.

      I can only compare this to the time when I was racing myself. Of course, I didn’t win titles like Max, but I’ve heard criticism from journalists more than once, and it was hard not to take it to heart. Many don’t read comments on social media because there are those who love you and those who don’t – that’s just how life is.

      I faced criticism that had a hidden subtext questioning my qualifications. It’s unpleasant when you’re asked the same question over and over again, but it’s the journalists’ right to talk about what they see. It’s hard not to take it personally. This applies to all drivers. Everyone has a tough time when they are criticized.

      Right now, everyone is praising Kimi Antonelli. Everyone adores him. And his mom probably keeps newspaper clippings if people still do that. But no matter how much he is praised now, in the future he will definitely be criticized when he starts making mistakes.

      I remember one journalist wrote: ‘David has an amazing ability to talk about an incident as if he wasn’t behind the wheel at that moment.’ And that struck a chord with me – he clearly thought I was always making excuses. But that wasn’t the case. I spoke with that journalist, we made up and moved on. Although it’s always difficult to take public criticism.”