LG

Jeremy Clarkson’s comments about Franco’s nationality were completely unacceptable. There is no place for remarks like this in Formula 1, regardless of who makes them or whether they are intended as a joke. We have worked hard to promote respect and put an end to hostility and abuse. That respect must go both ways. We cannot ask anyone to behave responsibly while accepting comments like these from prominent figures visiting our sport. Franco and his supporters deserve better than this. Let’s not allow this to undo the progress we’ve made and rise above malicious comments.

Listen carefully because I will only say this once. Stop with your opinions, stop with your insults and stop telling us how we should do our job. I will deal with it and I don’t need anymore comments. I was here long before any of you supporting Franco and will be here long after. Everyone makes mistakes and he will learn from them. Let’s focus on Vegas and racing, but to do that, I need you all to shut up.