Montoya slams reporting standards after Norris interview
Juan Pablo Montoya has launched a strong critique of a journalist following a controversial interview involving F1 drivers’ champion Lando Norris, describing some reporters as “incompetent” and untrustworthy.
The former McLaren and Williams driver also advised Norris not to engage with that particular journalist again, calling the situation “very poor” in terms of professional conduct.
Key Highlights:
- Juan Pablo Montoya defends Lando Norris while criticising a journalist after a controversial Guardian interview, warning of media “backstabbing” tactics
- Montoya calls some reporters “incompetent” and advises Norris to avoid engaging with that journalist again
- Interview restrictions set by Norris’ management limited questions on Verstappen, Russell, and F1 regulations
- Montoya argues journalists often provoke answers for headlines and stresses the need for careful media handling in Formula 1
Interview conducted under strict media guidelines
The McLaren driver had spoken around his Laureus Breakthrough of the Year award, with his management team setting clear limits on topics that could be discussed. Questions relating to Max Verstappen, George Russell, their relationships, and current F1 regulations were reportedly off-limits during the interview.
The published article detailed these restrictions, noting that a question on regulations was cut short by a management representative despite time reportedly still remaining, with Norris appearing uneasy and remarking, “I’m not the boss.”
Norris responds on Mercedes and title battle chances
Despite this, the interview continued briefly, including questions on whether Mercedes could be caught this season. Norris replied: “Yes, they can, and we’re doing our best to make sure it’ll be us who do that.”
When asked about Verstappen potentially retiring, Norris said: “I’ve no idea. Max can do whatever he likes,” while a management representative later added a light-hearted comment praising Verstappen.
The journalist later expressed frustration in his report, suggesting the controlled setting did a disservice to Norris despite his professionalism during the interaction.
“Stabbed in the back” warning
Speaking on his MontoyAS podcast, Montoya defended Norris and his team’s approach, while criticising the journalist’s conduct and intent. He said reporters often frame questions in ways designed to provoke headlines, adding that if an interview agreement sets boundaries, they should be respected.
He also reflected on his own F1 experience, saying it took time to learn which media figures could be trusted in off-the-record conversations. Montoya concluded that while some journalists are reliable, others may “stab you in the back” for a scoop, reinforcing the importance of careful media handling in Formula 1.
