A theme for the 2022 Formula 1 season has been that more often than not, more situations and controversies have taken place off the circuit, rather than on it.
The recent Mexican Grand Prix was once again no different, with issues with the fans and with the broadcasters, resulting in Max Verstappen and Red Bull boycotting all interviews with one in particular.
It was announced whilst at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez that the Austrians wouldn’t be carrying out any interviews with Sky, as a result of the double World Champion feeling like the broadcaster had been “disrespecting” him, highlighting “one particular person”.
Sky’s handling of the 2021 season finale and most recently the ‘Cashgate’ scandal has been heavily criticised, with Red Bull boss Christian Horner believing that the company haven’t been ‘impartial’.
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In regard to the boycott, though, it appears to be as a result of comments made by Sky F1 reporter Ted Kravitz, which has since resulted in the experienced journalist being victim of disgusting and unacceptable online abuse.
In a recent episode of his post-session show ‘Ted’s Notebook’, where he gives a rundown on every team’s performance, Kravitz accidentally referred to Lewis Hamilton as an eight-time World Champion and that former race director Michael Masi ‘robbed’ him.
Due to cutting and editing, it has shone a poor light on the journalist, with Red Bull believing that Kravitz said certain things, which he’s saying he didn’t.
Dutch journalist Jack Plooij, who works for Dutch broadcaster Ziggo Sport, suggested himself that Kravitz’s comments appear to have been cut and edited, meaning that what he truly said hasn’t been properly broadcast.
Given that Kravitz is one of the most loved, professional, and experienced reporters in Formula 1, what he’s been subject to is frankly wrong.
Whilst Red Bull announced that usual service will resume at the Brazilian Grand Prix, ex-F1 driver Martin Brundle, who is a pundit for Sky F1, demonstrated his support for his “friend and colleague” on social media.
Brundle revealed that Kravitz has his “full support” and that the situation should be dealt with through “face to face dialogue”.
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“For the avoidance of doubt, my friend and colleague for the past 26 years, Ted Kravitz, has my full support,” wrote Brundle on Twitter.
“Face to face dialogue is the only way to sort out issues and disputes in the relentless crucible of the F1 paddock.
“We all have opinion and different jobs to do, that’s life.”