F1’s ‘Martin Brundle Clause’ Explained

Shutterstock // Oskar SCHULER

Formula One races aren’t just a symphony of roaring engines and high-speed competition; they’re also a theater for the unexpected, courtesy of Martin Brundle and his famed grid walks.

With Sky Sports microphone in-hand, Brundle weaves through the grid, interacting with personalities and stumbling upon unpredictable moments as often as possible. But since 2021, there has been a clause inserted to make it easier, not harder, for Brundle to engage in his famously awful interviews.

The Martin Brundle Clause

Brundle’s grid walks have not been without repercussions. A notable incident unfolded with Megan Thee Stallion at the 2021 US Grand Prix, leading to the introduction of the “Martin Brundle clause.”

Planet F1

This rule dictates that celebrities on the grid can’t bring security. This clause therefore exponentially increases Brundle’s access to A-Listers, which means more cringe for viewers worldwide. Brad Pitt, in particular, was delighted to see Martin Brundle.

Navigating Awkward Moments

The grid walks occasionally lead to awkward moments, as witnessed in Brundle’s interaction with actor and model Cara Delevingne at Silverstone.

After rejecting him, Brundle implied that the interview would have been boring anyway.