Verstappen apologises to Brazilians for disrespectful remark

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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.

Massa is not amused by Verstappen's Bahrain barbs

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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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.