F1 driver tells Martin Brundle ‘I’m very sorry for what happened’ after awkward moment left legend red faced on live TV
MARTIN BRUNDLE has received an apology after being left red faced live on TV before the United States Grand Prix.
The Sky Sports presenter spoke to celebrities and F1 stars before last weekend’s race in Austin, Texas.
However, one driver snubbed the chance to speak to Brundle in an awkward exchange during his grid walk.
Brundle had approached Franco Colapinto for a chat, only for the Argentinian to walk right past him.
Introducing himself, the F1 icon said: “Hello, my name’s Martin Brundle, Sky. We haven’t met. Quick chat?”
Colapinto appeared to barely notice him, though, with Brundle instead pulling over Gordon Ramsey for a chat.
After making his way to the commentary booth, he added: “He looked at me like I was trying to mug him or something.
“I think he thought I was trying to steal his umbrella, to be honest. I’ll go and say hello to him.”
The pair were able to catch up ahead of Sunday’s Mexican Grand Prix, though, as they both apologised for the incident.
Brundle told Colapinto: “What happened in Austin, it was my fault. I should have come to you before and introduced myself.”
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The Williams star also took responsibility as he explained: “It’s a pleasure to be talking to you.
“I’m very sorry for what happened. Before the race starts, I’m never used to speaking.
“Actually, before the race starts in F2, we are still sitting in the car and then suddenly here in F1, you go 30 minutes, we jump out of the car, everyone wants to interview you, and I am in a bubble still.
“It’s only my fourth race, and it’s tricky. But I am sorry for that.”
Colapinto has made four starts since his debut at the Italian Grand Prix last month.
The 21-year-old already has five points to his name after finishing eighth and 10th in Azerbaijan and the USA, respectively.
He starts Sunday’s race in Mexico City in 16th place on the grid.
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