Max Verstappen issues a public apology

Red Bull's Max Verstappen has publicly apologised for his 'heat of the moment' comments which followed his penalty last weekend in Austin.

The Dutchman was stripped of his podium finish at the US Grand Prix for exceeding track limits and gaining an advantage on the last lap of the race, which led the angered driver to call one of the official FIA steward's "an idiot".

"Further to what I said during the FIA press conference earlier today, I would once again apologise for the language that I used following the US Grand Prix," Verstappen posed on his Instagram account.

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"My comments were made in the heat of the moment, I know that the words I used were inappropriate and they were not directed at any one person.

"I certainly did not mean to cause any offence and I hope we can move on and enjoy this race weekend."

Verstappen's comment targeted FIA steward Garry Connelly, who happened to be officiating in Mexico last year when the Red Bull driver was also demoted from third to fourth.

FIA director Charlie Whiting refuted however suggestions of a biased view from the official.

"I think it's just coincidence that Garry has been there and you can't tie the two together," said Whiting.

"I know Garry very well and a more honest and scrupulous person you could never come across. I think any idea that he may have it in for a driver is wholly unfounded."

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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.