Verstappen skips media duties in Jeddah due to illness

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Max Verstappen delayed his arrival in Saudi Arabia following a bout of illness that pinned down the Red Bull driver at home.

The two-time F1 world champion was due to arrive in Jeddah on Wednesday afternoon, but a stomach bug forced the Dutchman to push back his travel plans by 24 hours.

Verstappen has received a dispensation from the FIA to miss Thursday’s media duties. But he should be up and running in time for Friday's opening practice.

Read also: Verstappen not expecting an 'easy task' in Saudi Arabia

"Feeling fine again, after not being fit for a few days because of a stomach bug," Verstappen wrote on social media.

"Therefore, I unfortunately had to postpone my flight for a day, so I won’t be on the track until Friday. See you in Jeddah!"

Verstappen dominated the opening round of the 2023 F1 world championship in Bahrain two weeks ago where Red Bull enjoyed a 1-2.

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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.