FIA Consults Red Bull Over Verstappen's Journalist Ejection as Hamilton‑Kardashian Rumors Swirl

FIA has opened talks with Red Bull after Max Verstappen abruptly escorted a Guardian journalist out of the Japanese Grand Prix press conference. Mercedes confirmed that Jules Gounon, the GT driver for Verstappen Racing, is recovering from a recent illness, and off‑track drama continues as Lewis Hamilton and Kim Kardashian were again spotted together at Coachella, keeping the rumor mill active.

Why it matters:

• Media access is a cornerstone of Formula 1; any breach risks the sport’s credibility and sponsor confidence.
• Verstappen’s handling of the press reflects on Red Bull’s brand and could set a precedent for driver‑media interactions.
• Hamilton’s high‑profile outings shape his marketability and broaden F1’s cultural relevance beyond the track.

The details:

• The FIA and the F1 Media Advisory Council met with Red Bull after the incident, conveying the council’s dissatisfaction with how the journalist was treated.
• The journalist in question was a British reporter for The Guardian; Verstappen told the reporter to leave the paddock following a line of questioning.
• Mercedes relayed that Jules Gounon, who fell ill after a GT World Challenge Europe stint, is “doing well” and en route to Austria for a DTM test at the Red Bull Ring.
• Hamilton and Kardashian were photographed together at Coachella after Hamilton completed a wet‑weather Pirelli test in Italy; he declined to comment, citing privacy.

What's next:

• The FIA may issue clearer guidelines on driver‑press protocols before the next race weekend.
• Red Bull is expected to brief its drivers on media etiquette to avoid further friction.
• Gounon aims to return to the Mercedes‑run GT car for the upcoming Red Bull Ring event.
• Hamilton will focus on pre‑season testing, while dating speculation remains a peripheral storyline.