Mercedes title sponsor Petronas apologises for alcohol-related spur of the moment celebrations on F1 Singapore GP podium.
Post the win for George Russell and Mercedes in F1 Singapore GP, the German outfit sent its title sponsor Petronas chief Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik on the podium to collect the constructors’ trophy on behalf of the winning outfit.
Taufik looked a bit of out of place considering no experience in such celebrations. In a spur of celebrating Mercedes’ win on the F1 podium, he got drenched in champagne by Russell, Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. He sprayed on the drivers as well to join in.
This likely resulted in some disappointment in the community in Malaysia. Since alcohol is considered haram in Muslim community, Taufik released a statement of apology upon realising the unintended offence and sensitivity on the topic.
He affirmed that he doesn’t drink, but didn’t realise in the moment to not get drenched in champagne. “The recent victory at the Singapore Grand Prix was a much-awaited achievement in our long-standing strategic partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team in this season,” said Taufik.
“I felt honoured when I was invited to receive the Winning Constructor Trophy on the team’s behalf. However, I acknowledge that my spontaneous, spur-of-the-moment exuberance in celebrating that moment of victory may have been misplaced. While I can categorically state I did not consume any alcohol, as a Muslim, I should have been more aware of the sensitivities associated with taking part in such celebrations.
“Accordingly, I want to apologise for any unintended offence caused and take full responsibility for my actions. On behalf of PETRONAS, permit me to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude for the continued support of our participation in what is the pinnacle of motorsports competition.
“The successes we deliver now and in the upcoming era of sustainable fuels will indeed bear testimony to Malaysian innovation and capabilities,” summed up Taufik. Post the victory and double Top 5 result, both Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli flew down to Malaysia to complete sponsor activities at Petronas headquarters.
Here’s Andrea Kimi Antonelli on Top 5 result
Here’s George Russell on Singapore GP win
