Clarkson criticised for remark about Argentinian F1 driver

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 25 Oct, 16:31 · Archive

Jeremy Clarkson has been criticised for suggesting Alpine driver Franco Colapinto deserved a grid penalty because he is Argentinian. The 23-year-old from Buenos Aires will serve a 10-place grid drop due to engine changes for Sunday's race at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas.

Clarkson, 66, is in the Austin paddock as a guest of Alpine and made the comments to Sky Sports. Speaking to Martin Brundle, Clarkson said: 'Franco got a grid penalty for being Argentinian… well probably. I'd give him one for that.' He appeared to reference a 2014 incident when Clarkson and the Top Gear team were forced to abandon filming in Patagonia after driving a car with a number plate that appeared to reference the Falklands War.

Alpine responded with a statement: 'We're aware of the comments made in a recent TV interview from a guest of the team in Austin. We would like to reiterate that these are personal views and do not align with the team's values of promoting kindness and respect. Franco is our driver and has our full support.'

How it is being reported

• Jeremy Clarkson criticised for penalty remark about Argentinian F1 driverJeremy Clarkson has been criticised for suggesting Alpine driver Franco Colapinto deserved a grid penalty because he is Argentinian.Oxford Mail · 25 Oct, 15:59
• Jeremy Clarkson criticised for penalty remark about Argentinian F1 driverJeremy Clarkson has been criticised for suggesting Alpine driver Franco Colapinto deserved a grid penalty because he is Argentinian.Oxfordshire Guardian · 25 Oct, 15:59

In this story: Jeremy Clarkson · Franco Colapinto · Alpine · Circuit of the Americas · Argentina

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