Racing Bulls Apologise for Team Member’s Thumbs-Down at Norris Trophy Celebration

Racing Bulls Apologise After Team Member Disrespects Lando Norris Podium Moment

Racing Bulls have issued a public apology after a viral video showed a team member making a thumbs-down gesture as McLaren driver Lando Norris received his winner’s trophy at the São Paulo Grand Prix.

The video, captured during the post-race podium ceremony at Interlagos, shows a team member in Racing Bulls attire turning to fans and repeatedly making the thumbs-down gesture while Norris was being awarded. Another colleague quickly intervened, appearing to lower the individual’s arm and signal for them to stop.

Racing Bulls Statement: “Handled Internally”

The incident sparked widespread reaction on social media, prompting Racing Bulls to respond swiftly:

“This action does not reflect our team’s values or the spirit of Formula 1.

We believe in celebrating great racing and showing respect to every driver, team, and fan both on and off the track,”

the team said in a formal statement.

Racing Bulls confirmed the matter had been “handled internally”, though the identity of the individual was not disclosed, nor were any disciplinary measures made public.

Context: Norris Extends Lead in Drivers’ Championship

Norris claimed a commanding win in Brazil, extending his lead over McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri to 24 points in the Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship standings.

Meanwhile, Racing Bulls had their strongest weekend yet, with Liam Lawson finishing seventh and Isack Hadjar eighth, boosting the team to sixth in the Constructors’ Championship.

Despite their on-track success, the team now finds itself in the spotlight for off-track conduct, underlining Formula 1’s ongoing focus on professionalism and sportsmanship.

Sportsmanship in Focus

Incidents like this continue to highlight the intense rivalries and emotions in Formula 1. However, Formula 1 teams are under increasing pressure to demonstrate respect across the grid, particularly in moments of celebration.

Fans and pundits alike have praised the quick response of the second team member who intervened during the video, showcasing how internal accountability can still reflect professionalism even amid emotional race-day reactions.