Two Italian Sky Sports pundits who caused outrage for their use of misogynistic language have spoken out.
During the post-race analysis after the Spanish Grand Prix, Matteo Bobbi and Davide Valsecchi made sexist remarks whilst live on air and have been subsequently suspended.
Valsecchi has since taken to social media to air his regrets, stating:
“I’m so sorry, because on Sunday in the post-race I fell into an exchange of bad-tasteful jokes and used unsuitable and disrespectful words. And I’m not.
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“This is why I would like to apologise to those who felt offended, to women and to Sky. Really.”
Equally, Matteo Bobbi was quick to bemoan his comments, claiming:
“After the race I was the protagonist of a joke that came out in a completely unhappy way, although it was not in my intentions I generated an unpleasant moment that made the sensitivity of some people suffer. I ended up in gravel.
“Being anything but a disrespectful person I sincerely apologise to those who felt offended by reiterating my total and deep respect for everyone and towards women, particularly starting with the beautiful woman next to me. For 10 years I have been commenting on F1 with the friends of Sky, a family now and in 10 years I had never found myself in such an unpleasant situation.
“I’ve always thought that from mistakes you understand, learn and start again. What happened will lead me to try to improve further as a man and as a professional.”
As it currently stands, both men have been temporarily suspended and there has been no further action taken.
The hugely distasteful comments came when Bobbi drew attention to a woman who could be seen in the background, labelling her an “upgrade package.”
Valsecchi opted to join in on proceedings, responding,
“I already know them but they told me I can’t test them. So I raise my hands.”
Female broadcaster Frederica Masolin caught in the crossfire
Had it not been for the presence of fellow broadcaster Frederica Masolin, then perhaps the situation may have worsened.
Masolin thankfully told her colleague to “be careful” as she was understandably appalled by the unprofessionalism.
As the joking continued Masolin tried to save viewers from further discomfort, adding,
“Can we watch some interviews instead of these two? Let’s hear from Carlos Sainz, please. I’m going to censure you two.”
Masolin read a comment from a viewer that raised concern over the safety of Matteo and Davide, ultimately asking whether their wives would appreciate such behaviour.
Matteo and Davide foolishly continued.
“Well, when I get home I’ll get a beating, probably. Sorry, Davide,” claimed Matteo.
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Valsecchi added: “Well you know I’ve had eye surgery twice because I’ve been losing sight since I was a child, looking at those things.”
It was a shameful end to an otherwise thrilling weekend which saw Max Verstappen win in Barcelona for the second year running, increasing his lead to 53 points over teammate and title rival Sergio Perez.
The Mercedes duo of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell impressed as the pair finished second and third respectively. It is clear that Mercedes upgrades have improved the W14 but not enough to close the gap on Verstappen who finished the race 24 seconds ahead of Hamilton.