Bukayo Saka Sparks Backlash Over ‘Arrogant’ F1 Barcelona Grid Walk Etiquette Breach

Bukayo Saka Criticized for Awkward F1 Grid Walk Interview at Spanish Grand Prix
By Adrian Bishop | Updated: 12:12 BST, 2 June 2025

[Image: Bukayo Saka looking uncomfortable during a grid walk interview]
Caption: Bukayo Saka faced backlash after a brief exchange with a reporter at the Spanish Grand Prix.

Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka sparked online debate after an awkward grid walk interview during Sunday’s Spanish Grand Prix. While attending the event with his national teammates ahead of England’s World Cup qualifier against Andorra, Saka gave a blunt response to questions from Sky Sports’ Simon Lazenby, prompting mixed reactions from fans.

The Incident
Saka, known for his upbeat persona, was approached by Lazenby on the grid before the race. When asked who he was supporting, the 23-year-old responded, “Not much to say,” and later declined to elaborate, shaking his head as the reporter moved on. The interaction contrasted sharply with captain Harry Kane’s enthusiastic discussion about Lando Norris’ race prospects.

[Image: Harry Kane smiling during his grid walk interview]
Caption: Harry Kane engaged fans with his F1 insights during the same event.

Social Media Reacts
Critics accused Saka of arrogance, with one fan commenting, “If Saka was an F1 fan, he’d know grid interviews are part of the deal. Snubbing them makes him look like a diva.” Others compared him unfavorably to Kane and defender Dan Burn, who both participated willingly. However, supporters defended his right to privacy, arguing, “He’s there to relax, not work. Not everyone wants a camera in their face.”

[Image: Screenshots of social media reactions criticizing and defending Saka]
Caption: Fans were divided over Saka’s terse response.

Defending Saka
Some pointed out that many celebrities attend F1 for leisure rather than fandom. “Players like Kane and Trent Alexander-Arnold are genuine fans,” remarked one user. “Saka might just be enjoying a day off. Why force an interview?” Others stressed that athletes aren’t obligated to engage with media during downtime.

F1’s History of Awkward Grid Moments
Saka’s exchange joined a long list of cringe-worthy grid interactions. In 2023, model Cara Delevingne famously brushed off Martin Brundle, sparking viral headlines. The veteran F1 reporter has repeatedly called out celebrities who seem disinterested, once stating, “I like to challenge those using the grid for clout instead of passion.”

[Image: Martin Brundle and Cara Delevingne in a tense grid walk exchange in 2023]
Caption: Brundle’s clash with Delevingne remains a memorable F1 moment.

Behind the Scenes
Grid walks are notoriously chaotic, with reporters navigating tight schedules and crowded areas. Since 2021, bodyguards have been banned from the grid to streamline access, though debates persist about balancing celebrity presence with fan access. Brundle previously noted, “True fans deserve that spot more than someone just chasing exposure.”

[Image: England teammates and manager Thomas Tuchel at the Grand Prix]
Caption: England’s squad, including manager Thomas Tuchel, attended as part of a team-bonding trip.

Final Thoughts
While Saka’s brevity divided opinion, it underscored the pressures athletes face during off-duty appearances. As one fan aptly summarized, “Let the man enjoy the race. His job is football, not PR.” The incident reminds us that even global stars deserve moments out of the spotlight.

Share or comment on this article: Bukayo Saka sparks debate over ‘arrogant’ F1 grid walk behavior.

[Images: Additional photos of Saka signing autographs and the England team at the event]
Caption (top): Saka interacted with young fans before the awkward interview.
Caption (bottom): The England squad enjoyed a team outing ahead of their World Cup qualifier.

Word count: ~650