F1 bans bodyguards from the grid after Brundle incident

The 62-year-old Briton, a former team mate of Germany’s seven times world champion Michael Schumacher, was doing his pre-race ‘grid walk’ for Sky television in Austin when he tried to catch a word with rapper Megan Thee Stallion.

After approaching with a microphone to enquire whether she had any rap for F1, and being told she had “no rap today”, Brundle asked her who she was supporting. A bodyguard then told him he could not do that.

“I can do that, because I did,” replied Brundle, who has interviewed Hollywood A listers and sporting greats over the years, to the delight of many on social media.

A Formula One source confirmed to Reuters that bodyguards would no longer be allowed due to space limitations and COVID-19 restrictions, but celebrities would not be obliged to give interviews.

Brundle told his viewers on Sunday that new rules had been introduced and referred to a ‘Brundle Clause’.

He took to Twitter on Tuesday to offer a further clarification.

“For the avoidance of doubt I don’t care who visits the F1 grid, the more the merrier. Talk to me, ignore me, shove, wave, hug, call me names, whatever makes you happy,” he said.

“All I ask is that you soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the privilege. I’ve not asked for any grid protocol changes.”

REUTERS