Verstappen refuses press conference questions after swearing penalty

Max Verstappen has largely refused to answer questions in the official FIA press conference following qualifying at the Singapore Grand Prix.

The three-time F1 champion had qualified in second place to title rival Lando Norris, and along with Lewis Hamilton after the grid interviews, were escorted into the usual FIA press conference for the top three to be interviewed by media and host Tom Clarkson. 

However, during the pre-weekend Thursday session, Verstappen swore when talking about set-up changes to his car made last time out in Azerbaijan, saying they had "f****d" the car, before being reminded by Clarkson of his language. 

He did not swear again, but was summoned by the stewards on Friday, and subsequently handed community service for the language used. 

When Clarkson then asked Verstappen in the post-qualifying session for his feelings, the Red Bull driver was curt, and largely refused to answer questions, as the transcript below shows, only giving one answer beyond a couple of words

Verstappen refuses to answer press conference questions

Question: How sweet does this front row feel?

Max Verstappen: "Yeah, I'm very happy with second today after yesterday, and I would say, also big a thank you to the team for continuing to push throughout the weekend to make the car better for me. I'm very happy to be on the front row.

What did you change overnight?

MV: A lot. 

Can you elaborate?

MV: No, I might get a fine. 

How much of a step into the unknown is the race? 

MV: It is an unknown, this (his answers) are not towards you (Clarkson), so don't worry, I don't want to upset you.

The press conference was then opened to media on the floor, with Verstappen largely refusing to engage on the questions. 

How much of the changes were from what you learned in Baku?

MV: I would prefer if you asked these questions outside of the room. 

Will you talk outside of the room?

MV - does not verbally answer but nods and puts thumb up. 

What happens if this behaviour triggers another penalty?

MV: No comment.

How long do you anticipate that you won't be giving answers in the FIA press conference for?

MV: I'm answering, it's not a lot. There's a problem with my voice.

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