F1 journalists release statement after Max Verstappen ban

F1 journalists have called on the FIA to "open dialogue" with the teams and media following what it sees as a "deterioration" in the relationship between the two parties over the Japanese Grand Prix weekend.

The situation stems from four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen banning a permanently-accredited journalist from attending his pre-race press conference in the Red Bull hospitality unit at Suzuka on Thursday.

Just as the media session started, Verstappen interrupted the first question after spotting Guardian F1 correspondent Giles Richards in attendance.

Verstappen ordered him to "get out", later explaining the ban was in response to Richards' demeanour when he posed a question in last year's post-race FIA press conference in Abu Dhabi after the Dutchman had missed out on a fifth title by two points to Lando Norris.

It is understood that Richards has since been subjected to horrendous online abuse. Other journalists who defended him have also drawn scorn online.

The F1 Media Advisory Council, comprising several senior F1 journalists, held discussions with the FIA over the weekend regarding the situation involving Richards. It is understood that the FIA is to address the matter with Red Bull.

In tandem, the Italian Automotive Journalists Association, the UIGA, has since issued a strongly-worded statement expressing its "deep concern" at what has transpired in Suzuka.

Its statement read: "Verbal abuse and a climate of hostility directed at journalists and photographers are unacceptable and break down the fundamental principles of professional respect and press freedom.

"The testimonies of those present challenge some of the widespread narratives, which risk damaging the professional reputation of media workers.

"At the same time, tensions between drivers and photographers risk leading to increasingly restrictive measures that disproportionately affect the work of the press.

"Mutual respect is essential, but it must not limit the media’s right to report freely and independently.

"UIGA, therefore, calls on the FIA to open a dialogue with all parties involved - from media representatives to teams - to prevent any further deterioration in working conditions and access to information.

"A free, respected and protected press is not an ancillary matter, but a fundamental pillar of transparency and credibility in all sports, including Formula 1."