Formula One has banned celebrities from bringing bodyguards to the starting grid after an incident with commentator Martin Brundle at last month’s U.S. Grand Prix in Austin.
The 62-year-old British former racer, who was a teammate of Germany’s seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, was doing his prerace ‘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 which driver 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 also said 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 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.”
Source: www.espn.com