Max Verstappen was visibly concerned for a journalist after their interview on the grid was abruptly ended by security on the track before the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
The grid before any F1 race is always packed with celebrities, engineers and TV networks from around the world.
The TV stations get access to talk to drivers on the grid as they prepare for the start of each race.
Sky Sports are a prominent figure in the F1 paddock with Martin Brundle and Rachel Brookes among those who regularly speak to drivers ahead of races.
Max Verstappen appeared concerned for the reporter
VIAPLAY
Viaplay provide coverage of F1 in the Netherlands and regularly speak with Verstappen.
The Dutchman is usually happy to speak with reporters before the start of each race and he was in the middle of an interview with Viaplay reporter Chiel van Koldenhoven as he made his way onto the grid.
Sky Sports' Brookes was waiting for Verstappen alongside Karun Chandhok as the Red Bull driver was still speaking to Van Koldenhoven.
But the interview ended abruptly after security stepped in to drag the reporter away by his arm.
Verstappen looked genuinely concerned for the reporter, who was taken off the grid immediately.
Brookes then laughed and said: “I'm afraid you have to have a grid sticker."
Viewers were left surprised at the way security stepped in to haul Van Koldenhoven away.
One person wrote: "I get he didn't have a pass but he could've been a bit nicer. No need to manhandle him like that."
The reporter was talking to Max Verstappen as he walked onto the grid
VIAPLAY
Another said: "It looks funny, but that's honestly so disrespectful of the security guard."
A third joked: "Max verstappen watching the reporter he’s having a conversation with be dragged away mid question rn is so funny."
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Security stepped in to drag the reporter away
VIAPLAY
Verstappen started the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on pole after beating both Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in an enthralling qualifying session Saturday.
And the Red Bull driver was able to hold off both McLaren drivers at the start of the race on Sunday.
Verstappen holds a strong advantage in the championship already having won four of the opening six races.
