Max Verstappen has issued an apology to anyone he may have offended after tagging Brazilians in a joke he made last weekend at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
After qualifying on Saturday evening, the Red Bull expressed his frustration over Felipe Massa, feeling the Williams driver had hindered his efforts during his best lap.
Asked later on in the media session whether he planned to speak to Massa, the Dutchman joking said: "Well, he's a Brazilian – so there's not much to discuss."
Needless to say, the uncomplimentary remark did not go down well with Brazilian race fans and with Massa himself who spoke to the teenager ahead of Sunday's race and warned him his countrymen were not happy.
Verstappen took to Facebook yesterday to say he was sorry for any offence he may have caused.
"I feel like I need to clarify my remarks that were made after this weekends (sic) qualifying session,” he posted.
"Being a passionate racer, I was very disappointed with my last stint and gave an emotional reaction that was taken out of context.
"By no means did I mean to insult the Brazilian people who I greatly respect and are always very nice to me when I visit the country.
"One of the highlights of my career was last years (sic) Brazilian GP and it was extra special to do this in the country that brought us legendary drivers such as Senna, Fittipaldi and Piquet.
"I would like to apologize to any Brazilians that feel offended and look forward to racing in your country again."
GALLERY: All the action from the Bahrain Grand Prix
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